How to Make Spaghetti Sauce: My Family's Secret Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (170g)
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, Merlot or Chianti work well) (120 ml)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (12 g)
• 1 pound ground beef, ground Italian sausage, or a combination (454g) (Optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)