1poundspaghetticooked according to package directions
For the Garnish:
1cupgrated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
For the Red Gravy:
In a large saucepan or Dutch Oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add the onions, Italian Essence, salt, and crushed red pepper. Cook while stirring until the onions are soft, takes about 6 minutes.
Add the garlic and anise. Cook while stirring for 2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste. Cook while stirring frequently until the paste begins to brown. Takes about 5 minutes or so.
Add the tomato sauce, pureed tomatoes, 2 ½ cups of water, and Original Essence. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally.
For the Sausage Meatballs:
In a very large bowl, combine the ground chuck, sweet sausage, hot sausage, garlic, eggs, Original Essence, salt, and black pepper. Mix this briefly but thoroughly. Shape into about 20 large meatballs (⅓ cup each) and set aside in the fridge.
Putting it Together:
Add the meatballs to the sauce. Do not stir until the meatballs float to the top. This should take about 10 to 12 minutes.
Stir the sauce well. Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.