Dick Waterman'S Spaghetti Sauce Or Chop Suey Sauce
A hearty, savory spaghetti or chop suey sauce featuring tender vegetables, flavorful tomato paste, and seasoned beef substitute, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put margarine in a pan; sauté sliced peppers, diced onions, and sliced mushrooms until tender but still firm.
- In a separate pan, boil the Vitaburger until soft, then rinse with water.
- Combine the cooked Vitaburger, sautéed vegetables, tomato paste, Ragu sauce, and oregano in a pot.
- Simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier sauce, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas as a protein alternative to Vitaburger. If you're out of Ragu sauce, any jarred marinara or tomato sauce can work in a pinch. To enhance flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil can also brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce is perfect served over spaghetti or your favorite pasta, but it also pairs well with rice for a chop suey-inspired dish. Consider serving with a side of garlic bread or a fresh cole slaw salad for a balanced meal. A light lemon-lime iced tea makes a refreshing beverage choice alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dick Waterman'S Spaghetti Sauce Or Chop Suey Sauce contains roughly 314 calories, with 13g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat it before serving. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.
Is there a substitute for Vitaburger?
Absolutely! If you cannot find Vitaburger, you can use crumbled tempeh, cooked lentils, or even finely chopped mushrooms for a similar texture. These alternatives will provide a hearty base while keeping the dish plant-based.
Can I add more vegetables to this sauce?
Certainly! Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or carrots to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a delicious medley. The additional vegetables will complement the sauce beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).