Is Marinara Pizza Sauce? A Deep Dive into Tomato-Based Toppings
The answer is nuanced: While marinara sauce can be used as a pizza sauce, it’s not necessarily the definitive “pizza sauce.” Standard pizza sauce is often a variation or modification of marinara, but distinct ingredients and preparation techniques often set them apart.
The Marinara Sauce Foundation
Marinara sauce, a cornerstone of Italian-American cuisine, has a rich history. It’s a simple sauce traditionally made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs (often basil and oregano), and sometimes onions. Olive oil is used as the base for sautéing the aromatics before adding the tomatoes. Its simplicity allows the freshness of the tomatoes to shine through. This rustic sauce is incredibly versatile.
Pizza Sauce: A Focused Application
Pizza sauce, on the other hand, is specifically designed to complement the other ingredients on a pizza. While marinara forms the base for many pizza sauces, it’s frequently augmented to create a more robust flavor profile. This might involve cooking the sauce for a longer period to concentrate the flavors, adding sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes (especially canned tomatoes), or incorporating additional herbs and spices like red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Key Differences: Ingredients and Preparation
The subtle yet significant differences between marinara and pizza sauce lie in both their ingredients and their preparation.
Tomatoes: While both use tomatoes, the type and preparation can vary. Marinara often favors fresh, ripe tomatoes when in season, while pizza sauce commonly relies on canned crushed or puréed tomatoes for consistency and convenience.
Herbs and Spices: Both typically include basil and oregano, but pizza sauce might include other herbs like thyme or savory. Some recipes also incorporate red pepper flakes or garlic powder for added depth of flavor.
Sugar: This is a common addition to pizza sauce to offset the acidity of the tomatoes, particularly when using canned varieties. Marinara typically omits sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Cooking Time: Marinara is often cooked for a shorter period to maintain a fresh, vibrant flavor. Pizza sauce, however, may simmer for longer to develop a richer, more concentrated taste.
Marinara’s Versatile Applications
Marinara is a jack-of-all-trades in the kitchen. Beyond pizza, it shines in various dishes:
- Pasta Sauce: Tossed with spaghetti, penne, or any other pasta shape, it provides a simple yet satisfying meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Served warm with mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, or garlic bread, it offers a tangy and flavorful accompaniment.
- Base for Other Sauces: Marinara can be used as a foundation for more complex sauces, like arrabiata (with chili peppers) or puttanesca (with olives, capers, and anchovies).
- Braising Liquid: Used as a braising liquid for meats or vegetables, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
Pizza Sauce Characteristics
Pizza sauce needs to be more than just flavorful; it must also perform well on the pizza.
- Consistency: It should be thick enough to prevent the crust from becoming soggy but not so thick that it’s difficult to spread.
- Flavor Profile: It needs to be robust enough to stand up to the other toppings on the pizza.
- Acidity Balance: The acidity of the tomatoes must be balanced to create a harmonious flavor profile and prevent a sour taste.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Marinara Sauce | Pizza Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato Type | Fresh or canned diced/crushed | Canned crushed/puréed |
| Sugar | Usually omitted | Often added |
| Cooking Time | Shorter | Longer |
| Consistency | Slightly thinner | Thicker |
| Flavor | Fresh, bright | Rich, concentrated |
Frequently Asked Questions About Marinara and Pizza Sauce
Is marinara sauce only used for pasta?
No, marinara sauce is incredibly versatile. While commonly paired with pasta, it can also be used as a dipping sauce, a base for other sauces, and even a braising liquid for meats and vegetables. Its simple and fresh flavor profile makes it a great addition to various dishes.
Can I just use store-bought marinara on my pizza?
Yes, you certainly can use store-bought marinara sauce on your pizza. However, you may want to consider adding a pinch of sugar, some extra herbs (like oregano), or a dash of red pepper flakes to give it a more pizza-specific flavor profile. Experiment to find what you like best!
What’s the best type of tomato for making marinara?
For making marinara from scratch, San Marzano tomatoes are highly recommended due to their sweet flavor, low acidity, and meaty texture. However, other ripe tomatoes like Roma or heirloom varieties can also be used, depending on availability and personal preference.
Why do some pizza sauce recipes include sugar?
Sugar is often added to pizza sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially when using canned varieties. The sweetness helps to create a more harmonious flavor profile and prevents the sauce from tasting too sour.
Does cooking marinara sauce longer make it pizza sauce?
Cooking marinara sauce for a longer period can certainly concentrate its flavors and thicken its consistency, making it more suitable for pizza. However, it’s not just about cooking time; the addition of other ingredients like sugar and different herbs also contributes to the distinct characteristics of pizza sauce.
Is pizza sauce always cooked before being put on the pizza?
While some recipes call for cooking the pizza sauce beforehand, others advocate for using it raw. Cooking the sauce beforehand allows the flavors to meld and deepen, while using it raw results in a fresher, more vibrant taste after baking. Both methods have their merits.
Can I freeze marinara sauce for later use?
Yes, marinara sauce freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What are some common mistakes people make when making marinara?
Common mistakes include using low-quality tomatoes, not seasoning the sauce properly, and overcooking it. Overcooking can result in a bitter taste. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Is there a vegan version of marinara sauce?
Yes, traditional marinara sauce is inherently vegan as it typically consists of tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. However, always check the ingredients list of store-bought versions to ensure no animal-derived products have been added.
What’s the difference between marinara and pomodoro sauce?
While both are tomato-based sauces, pomodoro is typically simpler, focusing solely on tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. Marinara often includes garlic, onions, and oregano.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs in marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will generally provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs.
What kind of olive oil is best for making marinara sauce?
Extra virgin olive oil is generally considered the best choice for making marinara sauce due to its robust flavor and aroma. However, regular olive oil can also be used, especially if you prefer a more subtle flavor.