Maltese Special Sauce and other recipes #15

red wine vinegar

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

Apple cider vinegar offers a similar tang with less acidity.

capers

🥗Healthier: chopped green olives

💰Cheaper: pickles

Chopped green olives provide a briny flavor at a lower cost.

black pepper

🥗Healthier: white pepper

💰Cheaper: ground black pepper

White pepper is milder and can be used interchangeably.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile and is often less expensive.

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add diced bell peppers and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Mix in chopped tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add capers, olives, and red wine vinegar; stir to combine.

Season with bay leaves, oregano, basil, black pepper, sugar, and salt.

Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Remove bay leaves before serving; adjust seasoning as needed.

Blend the sauce for a smoother texture if desired.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: