Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs pork sausage
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seed
  • 3 tablespoons california chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon new mexico chile powder
  • gray salt
  • fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes, crushed by hand
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • beef broth or water, for thinning sauce
  • 6 large soft hamburger buns, split

Method

  • In a large bowl, mix together the sausage, fennel seed, chili powders, and salt and pepper, to taste.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat cook the sausage mixture until browned.
  • Remove it from the pan and set aside; drain off all but 1 tablespoon of the fat from the skillet.
  • Return the SKILLET to medium heat and add the onions and garlic.
  • Cook until the onions are soft, stirring often, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the red wine, then stir in the tomato paste, pureed tomatoes, and dried oregano.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil and add the cooked sausage.
  • Turn the heat down and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • If mixture is too thick, thin it with a little broth or water.