Do you love pasta? Do you love vodka? If the answer is yes, this vodka sauce is for you.
Let’s back up a bit. Just what exactly is vodka sauce? It’s pink, it’s pretty, and it really does have vodka in it. It’s little bit retro (it was super popular in the 70s and 80s) and something you almost always see at classic old school Italian American pasta places. Vodka sauce is rich, luscious, and is one of the best homemade pasta sauces you’ll ever learn to make. If you’ve only ever had the jarred stuff before, you’re in for a treat.
Vodka sauce, like so many beloved foods, has somewhat of a murky beginning. Some people say that it’s completely Italian American and some say it originated in Bologna, Italy. From what I can tell, according to the internet anyway, penne alla vodka became peak popular in America. I love vodka sauce, so I’m here for it!
Is there vodka in vodka sauce?
Yes, there is vodka in vodka sauce. Lots of sauces have alcohol added to them: the alcohol bonds with fat and water, so food become smells and tastes better. Simply said, food cooked with alcohol becomes more aromatic and flavorful. Most authentic Italian sauces have wine and in this case, we switch out wine for vodka.
Is vodka sauce vegetarian?
Most vodka sauce recipes out there are vegetarian. This recipe has pancetta (Italian cured pork belly) in it but you can leave it out to make a vegetarian version.
How to Make Easy (and Advanced) Vodka Sauce | Basics with Babish
FAQ
How do you jazz up store bought vodka sauce?
Does Bertolli vodka sauce actually have vodka in it?
What makes vodka sauce better?