Ulitmate Tomato Sauce

1) In a large skillet, melt butter and oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Saute until soft and transparent, about 3-5 minutes.

2) Add tomatoes with juices and tomato paste. Crush tomatoes with the back of a spoon. Stir until paste is fully incorporated, continuing to crush tomatoes to break down into smaller pieces.

3) Add remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer, up to 5 minutes.

4) Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring and crushing tomatoes occasionally.

5) Remove bay leaves and serve or store. The sauce will be thick and chunky.

Quick tips:

Shred onion with coarse grater.

Cut celery stalks in half and use a mandoline to slice into 1/8-inch half-moon pieces.