Ginney'S Greek Sauce
A hearty Greek-inspired meat sauce with rich spices, garlic, and tomato paste, perfect for comforting dinners and pairs well with rice or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground chuck with chopped onions, garlic, chili powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt for 30 minutes, stirring often.
- Add tomato paste and 3 to 4 cups water to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the sauce for 1 1/2 hours until thickened and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground lamb instead of ground chuck. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. Feel free to add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture. If you want a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty sauce over pasta, rice, or baked potatoes for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans And Onion Salad for a refreshing side. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed grapevine leaves (dolma) or as a topping for baked vegetables for a Mediterranean twist. Don't forget to sprinkle some feta cheese on top for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ginney's Greek Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginney'S Greek Sauce contains roughly 1510 calories, with 72g protein, 202g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (195% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2606mg per serving (113% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, so adjust the spices accordingly to maintain a robust taste.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it quickly.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This sauce freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
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).