Vodka sauce

Vodka sauce is a pasta sauce made from vodka, tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. It is a key ingredient in many Italian-American dishes, particularly penne alla vodka.

History

The origins of vodka sauce are unclear, with many theories suggesting it was created in Italy, Russia, or the United States. Some believe it was invented in the 1970s during a period when Italian chefs in America were experimenting with traditional Italian recipes and ingredients. Others suggest it was created in Russia, due to the use of vodka, a popular Russian spirit.

Ingredients and Preparation

Vodka sauce is typically made by sautéing onion and garlic in olive oil, then adding tomato sauce, vodka, and heavy cream. The alcohol in the vodka is cooked off, leaving behind a rich and creamy tomato sauce with a slight kick. The sauce is then typically mixed with cooked pasta, often penne.

While the basic ingredients of vodka sauce are generally the same, variations can include the addition of prosciutto, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese. Some recipes also call for the sauce to be blended until smooth.

Uses

While vodka sauce is most commonly served with penne pasta, it can also be used in other dishes. It can be used as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, a topping for pizza, or a sauce for chicken or seafood dishes. It can also be used in lasagna or other baked pasta dishes.

See Also

• Penne alla vodka
• Italian-American cuisine
• List of pasta dishes
• List of sauces