CHINESE RED SAUCE RECIPES

Steps:

• Puree the tomatoes to a smooth, creamy consistency in a food processor or with an immersion blender. (If you like a more country feel, you can wait and break them up in the pan later with a wooden spoon.)
• Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. When hot, add the onion and saute 5 to 6 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until you see the color start changing. If you'd like to make the sauce spicy, add the red pepper flakes.
• Add the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer about 30 minutes. (If you did not puree the tomatoes, use a wooden spoon to break them into pieces while they cook.) Strive for balance in the consistency of the sauce: It has to be fluid, but it should not look overly wet. Add the basil and remove from the heat. Toss with just-cooked pasta.

Steps:

• Mix all ingredients in a bowl,( or a jar with a tight fitting lid), until the sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate until you are ready to use it.
• *You can set aside some for use as a dipping sauce, but you must first bring it to a full rolling boil, over med. heat, then reduce the heat to low, and simmer until it is thick, and slightly reduced.
• **When you are ready to cook, marinate meat for 4-24 hours, turning once every two hours. You then grill or broil the meat until it is cooked through,(and slightly charred- this adds to the flavor!).