While chocolate is used in al sorts of South American recipes it’s rarely an ingredient in savory Italian foods. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.
Surprise Solar Sauce
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 ounce dark chocolate (80% cocoa or more), chopped
1 carton (26-ounce) Pomi chopped tomatoes*
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Chopped fresh basil
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation
Set Sun Oven out to preheat.
In a medium pot, combine the oil, garlic, red pepper, chocolate, tomatoes, and salt. Cover with a dark kitchen towel and a lid. Cook in the Sun Oven until the flavors have blended, about 1 hour. Stir in the basil and adjust for salt. Serve with pasta and Parmesan cheese.
Makes enough sauce for 1 pound of pasta.
*your favorite brand of crushed or strained tomatoes can also be used
A kitchen towel placed under the lid will absorb any excess moisture and keep the sauce for getting watery.