There isn't a single "best" marinara sauce for making Subway-like meatball sandwiches since taste preferences can vary among individuals. However, you can try to make a marinara sauce that closely resembles the flavor profile used in Subway's meatball sandwiches. Subway's marinara sauce typically has a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the bottom.
Add the sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the sweetness of the sauce.
Continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency and taste, remove it from the heat.
You can adjust the seasonings to suit your preference. Some people like a spicier sauce, so you can add more red pepper flakes, or if you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can increase the sugar. Similarly, you can add fresh herbs if you have them available.
Remember that the flavor of the marinara sauce will also be influenced by the meatballs and other ingredients in the sandwich. Feel free to customize the meatball recipe and the type of bread and cheese you use to create a Subway-like meatball sandwich that suits your taste!