Vodka sauce has been a popular, creamy and delicious addition to pasta dishes worldwide for years. At Vodka Doctors, we understand your love for vodka goes beyond cocktails, which is why we're dedicating this post to guide you through the process of creating your own vodka sauce that will impress your friends and elevate your next pasta night!
Best Budget Vodkas Ranked
Smirnoff
A global vodka giant with Russian origins, Smirnoff delivers consistent quality and versatility for any mixer.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Crisp, mild sweetness with a clean finish
Best Cocktail Pairing: Classic Cosmopolitan
Best Food Paring: Grilled chicken skewers
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Absolut
Swedish purity in a bottle, Absolut is distilled from winter wheat, giving a smooth and rich experience.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Smooth with light grain and citrus hints
Best Cocktail Pairing: Absolut Elyx Martini
Best Food Paring: Smoked salmon canapés
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Ketel One
A Dutch treat, Ketel One is the result of over 300 years of distilling expertise; a refined choice.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Fresh with subtle citrus and honey notes
Best Cocktail Pairing: Dutch Mule
Best Food Paring: Aged cheeses or Dutch herring
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
What is Vodka Sauce?
Vodka sauce is a creamy, tomato-based sauce that typically consists of vodka, tomatoes, cream, and other flavourful ingredients. The alcohol in the vodka cooks out during the cooking process, leaving behind a rich and unique taste that enhances the flavour of your favourite pasta dishes.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Choosing the Vodka
When it comes to choosing the vodka for your vodka sauce, always opt for a high-quality one. This doesn't mean you need to break the bank, but do try to avoid the cheapest options on the shelves. A good quality vodka will result in a better-tasting sauce and will ensure no unwanted flavours sneak their way into your dish.
Step-by-step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the vodka, being careful as it may sizzle. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vodka to reduce by half. Be patient, as this will allow the alcohol to cook off and mellow the flavour.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, and allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Lower the heat, and cook for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, and season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Simmer the sauce gently for another 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Once the sauce has finished cooking, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it has fully melted and combined.
- Serve your vodka sauce with your favourite pasta, and enjoy!
How To Cook Vodka Sauce Example:
Our favourite way to serve vodka sauce is with a simple dish of cooked penne pasta. In a large serving bowl or individual plates, ladle the creamy sauce over cooked and drained pasta, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Garnish the dish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of colour and flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vodka sauce?
Vodka sauce is a creamy, tomato-based sauce enhanced with a splash of vodka. It combines the tangy flavors of tomatoes with the richness of cream, the sharpness of cheese, and the subtle notes from the vodka, which are believed to release flavors from the tomatoes that are not otherwise accessible.
Does the alcohol cook out of vodka sauce?
Yes, most of the alcohol in vodka sauce evaporates during the cooking process. The sauce is typically simmered for at least 20 minutes, which should reduce the alcohol content significantly, leaving behind the flavor without much, if any, of the alcoholic punch.
What kind of vodka is best for vodka sauce?
It's best to use a good-quality plain vodka for vodka sauce. Flavored vodkas might add unwanted tastes to your sauce. A mid-range brand that is smooth and doesn't have a very strong alcohol flavor will work well.
Can I make vodka sauce without vodka?
Yes, you can make a similar sauce without vodka, although it will not have the exact same flavor profile. The vodka is said to release certain flavors from the tomatoes that are fat-soluble, which helps to create a richer and more complex taste.
Is vodka sauce gluten-free?
Vodka sauce can be gluten-free, but you should check the ingredients you use to ensure they do not contain gluten. Most vodka is gluten-free, but some brands may use flavorings or additives that contain gluten.
Can I make vodka sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Vodka sauce can be prepared in advance and then stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave before serving.
How do I store leftover vodka sauce?
Leftover vodka sauce should be cooled to room temperature, transferred to an airtight container, and stored in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to four days.
Can vodka sauce be frozen?
Yes, vodka sauce freezes quite well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat vodka sauce?
Gently reheat the vodka sauce on the stove over low heat to avoid splitting the cream. If you're using a microwave, cover the sauce and heat it in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Can I use half-and-half instead of cream in vodka sauce?
Yes, you can use half-and-half in place of heavy cream to make vodka sauce lighter. However, the sauce may not be as rich and thick as it would be with heavy cream.
How do I thicken my vodka sauce?
If your vodka sauce is too thin for your preference, you can thicken it by simmering it for a longer period of time to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, you can create a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch and a tablespoon of water and whisk that into the sauce, heating it through until thickened.
Can I use canned tomatoes for making vodka sauce?
Canned tomatoes are actually an excellent choice for vodka sauce, especially if high-quality, ripe fresh tomatoes aren't available. Many chefs recommend using canned San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
What type of pasta works best with vodka sauce?
Thick and tubular pastas such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti are often used with vodka sauce, as they are good at holding the sauce. However, you can certainly use any type of pasta you prefer.
Can I add meat to my vodka sauce?
Yes, vodka sauce can be complemented with meat. Pancetta, prosciutto, or even ground beef or sausage can be browned and added to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Is vodka sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Traditional vodka sauce recipes are suitable for ovo-lacto vegetarians as they do not contain meat. However, some versions include pancetta or other meat products, so it's essential to check the recipe.
Can I add extra spices to my vodka sauce?
Yes, feel free to experiment with extra spices in your vodka sauce. While the traditional sauce typically includes garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes, you can add basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the flavor.
Is vodka sauce safe for children to eat?
Since the alcohol in vodka sauce is significantly reduced during cooking, it is generally considered safe for children to eat. However, it’s ultimately up to the parent's discretion.
How can I make a dairy-free vodka sauce?
To make a dairy-free vodka sauce, you can substitute the cream with a plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk for a similar consistency. Be sure to check that the other ingredients in your recipe are also dairy-free.
What makes vodka sauce turn orange?
The orange color of vodka sauce is a result of the red hue from the tomato sauce mixing with the white, creamy color of the cream or dairy alternative that's used.
Can I make vodka sauce spicy?
Yes, vodka sauce can be made spicy by adding extra red pepper flakes, fresh chili, or your favorite hot sauce. Always add these ingredients gradually and taste as you go to ensure the heat level suits your preferences.
Can people with a tomato allergy make vodka sauce?
Unfortunately, vodka sauce is not suitable for those with a tomato allergy as it is a tomato-based sauce. People with tomato allergies should avoid vodka sauce and consider alternative pasta sauces that do not contain tomatoes.
Now that you know how to cook vodka sauce like a pro, we hope you'll experiment with different pasta dishes and share your creations! Don't forget to explore our other Vodka Doctors guides for more tips, tricks, and recipes to elevate your vodka game. If you loved this article, don't hesitate to share it with your fellow vodka enthusiasts – happy cooking!
