Is Pizza Sauce And Marinara Sauce The Same Thing?

Pizza Sauce And Marinara Sauce

Pizza is one of the most beloved foods around the world. Its versatility and variety of flavors make it a crowd favorite. One of the key ingredients that make pizza so delicious is the sauce. While the tomato sauce is commonly used on pizza, there is often confusion between pizza sauce and marinara sauce. Many people wonder whether they are the same thing. In this blog post, we will explore the differences and similarities between pizza sauce and marinara sauce. But first, let’s take a brief look at the history of pizza and marinara sauce.

Pizza originated in Italy, specifically in Naples, in the 18th century. It was initially a simple dish, made with a flatbread base, tomato sauce, and cheese. The original tomato sauce used on pizza was marinara sauce, which was a sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Over time, pizza evolved to include various toppings, and different types of sauces was created. One of these sauces was pizza sauce, which was specifically formulated to complement the toppings used on pizza. Today, both pizza sauce and marinara sauce are commonly used in Italian cuisine, and the debate over whether they are the same thing continues.

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce is a specific type of tomato sauce that is used on pizza. It is a smooth, thick sauce that is usually seasoned with garlic, oregano, and basil. The sauce is designed to complement the toppings used on pizza and to create a harmonious flavor profile.

The ingredients used in pizza sauce may vary depending on the recipe, but the most common ingredients include tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Some recipes may also include onion, sugar, or red pepper flakes.

To make pizza sauce, the tomatoes are usually crushed or pureed, and then cooked down to create a thick sauce. The garlic is sautéed in olive oil, and then added to the tomato sauce along with the herbs and spices. The sauce is then simmered for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

The purpose of pizza sauce is to provide a base for the toppings used on pizza. It helps to create a cohesive flavor profile by bringing together the flavors of the crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings.

Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that is used in a variety of dishes. It is a simple sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. The name “marinara” comes from the Italian word for “sailor”, as it was a sauce commonly used by sailors on long sea voyages.

The ingredients used in marinara sauce are simple and straightforward. They include tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Some recipes may also include onion or red pepper flakes.

To make marinara sauce, the tomatoes are usually crushed or pureed, and then cooked down with garlic and olive oil. The herbs and spices are added, and the sauce is simmered for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

The purpose of marinara sauce is to provide a simple, flavorful tomato sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used in pasta dishes, as well as in soups, stews, and casseroles. While it may not be specifically designed for use on pizza, it can certainly be used as a substitute for pizza sauce in a pinch.

Differences between Pizza and Marinara Sauce

Pizza sauce and marinara sauce may look similar, but they are not the same thing. Here are some of the key differences between the two:

1. Texture: Pizza sauce is typically thicker and smoother than marinara sauce. This is because pizza sauce is designed to sit on top of the pizza crust and hold its shape, while the marinara sauce is thinner and more fluid.
2. Flavor: Pizza sauce is often spicier and sweeter than marinara sauce, as it is meant to complement the toppings on the pizza. Marinara sauce, on the other hand, has a more savory flavor with a touch of sweetness.
3. Cooking Time: Pizza sauce is usually cooked for a shorter period of time than marinara sauce. This is because the shorter cooking time helps to preserve the flavor of the spices used in the sauce. Marinara sauce, on the other hand, is cooked for a longer period of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Uses: Pizza sauce is specifically formulated to be used on pizza, while the marinara sauce is used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta, lasagna, and meatballs.

Similarities between Pizza and Marinara Sauce

While there are some notable differences between pizza sauce and marinara sauce, there are also some similarities:

• Ingredients: Both pizza sauce and marinara sauce are made from similar ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. The main difference is the amount and type of spices used.
• Cooking process: The cooking process for both sauces is quite similar. The tomatoes are typically blanched and peeled, then cooked down with garlic, onions, and herbs.
• Origin: Both pizza and marinara sauce originated in Italy. Pizza sauce evolved from the original tomato sauce used on pizza, which was the marinara sauce.

Overall, while there are some differences between pizza sauce and marinara sauce, they are both delicious and versatile sauces that are essential ingredients in Italian cuisine. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which sauce to use on your pizza or in your favorite pasta dish.

FAQs: Pizza Sauce and Marinara Sauce – What You Need to Know

Can you substitute pizza sauce for marinara sauce?

Yes! Marinara sauce can definitely be used in place of pizza sauce. Pizza sauce is typically a bit thicker in consistency, but the two can be used interchangeably.

Is marinara sauce basically pizza sauce?

No. Pizza sauce and marinara sauce are similar but not the same. Pizza sauce is thicker in consistency than marinara sauce because the tomatoes are pureed instead of lightly blended. Pizza sauce is usually cooked on a pizza crust, whereas marinara sauce is served as a dip or topping.

Do you use tomato sauce or marinara on pizza?

Either tomato sauce or marinara sauce can be used on pizza, but marinara sauce is a great choice because it is not too complex in flavor and is a common ingredient in many pizza recipes.

What can you substitute for marinara sauce?

While marinara sauce is a key ingredient in many recipes, there are several substitutes you can use such as fresh tomatoes, pizza sauce, tomato juice, tomato ketchup, tomato paste, tomato salsa, pureed tomatoes, and tomato soup.

Can you use Ragu Marinara for pizza sauce?

No. Tomato sauces meant for pasta, such as Ragu Marinara, are typically runnier than pizza sauce, and the flavor is a bit different. It is best to use a sauce specifically formulated for pizza for the best results.

Final Thoughts on Pizza Sauce vs. Marinara Sauce

While pizza sauce and marinara sauce may share some similarities in terms of ingredients and cooking process, they are not the same thing. Pizza sauce is specifically formulated to complement the toppings on pizza, while the marinara sauce is more versatile and commonly used in a variety of Italian dishes.

Some of the main differences between the two include texture, flavor, cooking time, and uses. Pizza sauce is typically thicker and spicier than marinara sauce, while the marinara sauce is more savory with a touch of sweetness. Additionally, pizza sauce is cooked for a shorter period of time compared to marinara sauce.

However, both pizza sauce and marinara sauce are delicious and can be used interchangeably in some recipes, depending on personal preference. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which sauce to use on your pizza or in your favorite pasta dish.

In conclusion, whether you prefer pizza sauce or marinara sauce, both sauces are an integral part of Italian cuisine and add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.