ARFID Cookbook: Pasta Sauce made easy and accessible with Marcella Hazan's Recipe!

One recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen and with my clients is Marcella Hazan's classic pasta sauce. This sauce is not only simple and made with just a few ingredients, but it's also incredibly delicious and will impress dinner guests with any range of sophisticated palate. If you are comfortable with noodles, tomato products and butter (you can hold the onion if your not ready), this is a great next step in your food journey!

Ingredients You'll Need

Gathering ingredients can be one of the most enjoyable parts of cooking! For Marcella Hazan's renowned pasta sauce, here is what you will need:

• 1 can (28 ounces) of whole peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)

• 5 tablespoons of salted butter

• 1 white onion, halved

  
  

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the sauce's rich flavor. With just three components, this recipe is accessible to anyone. You can build up to adding the onion if not yet ready - the onion is removed and only used for flavor. For a sweeter flavor, swap the white onion for a sweet onion.

Note: you will need to make your choice of pasta. Once you've added sauce ingredients over heat, start boiling water for your pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation of Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Using a high-quality can of whole peeled tomatoes enhances the sauce’s flavor significantly. These tomatoes are smoother and less acidic, not only generally considered preferable, but also particularly appealing to those with ARFID who may prefer the milder flavor in their food.

2. Combining Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the whole peeled tomatoes, butter, and halved onion. This straightforward combination sets the foundation for a comforting sauce.

Note: I personally hold off on the onion and use a potato masher to make a sauce from the whole tomatoes, and shorten cook time, at least long enough to melt-in all the butter. Add the onion once the tomatoes are sufficiently mashed.

3. Cooking the Sauce

Place the saucepan over medium heat and let it come to a gentle simmer. Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to cook for about 45 minutes. As it simmers, the scent of tomatoes and butter fills your kitchen—an inviting aroma that can help ease the anxiety many with ARFID experience during meals. Use this time for an olfactory mindfulness exercise. Research indicates that familiar smells can significantly enhance appetite, making this sauce particularly beneficial for individuals who might have low hunger cues.

Note: See blog articles on Hunger Cues and ARFID Treatment

Simmering tomato sauce with a rich color and buttery glaze.

4. Stirring Occasionally

Stir the sauce gently every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning. During this process, take a moment to observe how the tomatoes break down and meld with the butter, creating a rich, unified sauce. This transformation is another way to engage the senses - visually and tactilely.

5. Finalizing the Sauce

After 45 minutes, remove the onion halves. You can, discard them, serve them as they are, or blend them back into the sauce for a smoother texture. If you opt for the latter, an immersion blender makes this quick and easy.

6. Serving the Sauce

Finally, adjust the seasoning by adding salt to taste (may not be necessary if using salted butter) and serve over your favorite pasta. This sauce pairs well with various types of pasta, from spaghetti to penne, ensuring it remains appealing and accessible. Consider avoiding angel hair, as it is likely too delicate for a rich sauce.

Tips for Modifying the Recipe

Use as a Base for other Meals

Pour over breaded chicken for a chicken Parm, or as a pizza sauce.

Adding Proteins and Veggies

Add prepared meatballs or ground beef, or chicken (grilled or breaded a-la chicken Parm). Many people like adding veggies like bell peppers to pasta sauce.

Consider Adding Friendly Flavorings

If the person you are cooking for has specific preferences, consider adding small amounts of seasonings like fresh basil, oregano or garlic. It is easy to add too much or too many - pick one. Add the seasoning later in cooking to maintain freshness of flavor and avoid them from becoming bitter - if using basil, consider adding it fresh to each plate of paste just before serving.

Freezing for Convenience

This sauce freezes beautifully, making it a great meal prep option. Consider making a double or triple batch and dividing it into portions in airtight containers. One batch of this sauce, which takes about an hour to make, can serve four to six people and can be stored for up to three months in the freezer. This way, you'll always have a comforting meal ready for busy days! Additionally, this gives you the chance to eat this meal several times in a brief period, which is ideal in ARFID recovery.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating Marcella Hazan’s pasta sauce into your mealtime can be a fantastic choice, especially for those managing ARFID. The sauce’s simplicity and delicious flavor not only make it a hit with various palates but also encourage culinary exploration. Think about pairing it with familiar ingredients and serving with care. Try to take each meal at your own pace, and remember, cooking should be a joyful experience!

I hope this recipe inspires you as much as it has inspired me! Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking and the comfort of a well-made meal. Bon appétit!

Delicious bowl of pasta draped in rich Marcella Hazan tomato sauce.