Sauce | Vegetarian

Vodka Sauce

Solanum lycopersicum (for tomatoes), Bos taurus (for cream) Allergens: Milk
Vodka Sauce

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae (for tomato), Bovidae (for cream)
  • Primary Cuisine Italian-American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tomatoes, Cream, Vodka, Onion, Garlic

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A creamy, tomato-based pasta sauce enriched with heavy cream and a touch of vodka, which helps to emulsify and enhance flavors.

Sensory Profile

TasteSavory, Umami, Tangy
TextureCreamy, Smooth
AromaTomato, Herbaceous, Creamy
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 100 g
Calories150 kcal
Total Fat12 g
Saturated Fat7 g
Trans Fat0.3 g
Cholesterol35 mg
Protein3 g
Total Carbohydrate8 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars4 g
Calcium80 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium250 mg

Chef’s Secret

To prevent the cream from curdling in a hot tomato base, always temper the cream by slowly whisking in some hot sauce before adding it fully to the main pot.

Substitutions

Best Match

Marinara Sauce + Cream

1:1

Combines classic tomato flavor with added cream to mimic the richness and texture of vodka sauce.

Rose Sauce

1:1

A similar pink-hued, tomato-cream sauce, often less spicy and without the vodka element.

Tomato Cream Sauce

1:1

Directly similar, focusing on the tomato and cream blend, omitting the vodka without significant flavor loss.

Arrabiata Sauce (less cream)

1:1

A spicier tomato sauce; can be mellowed with a touch of cream for a different but flavorful profile.

Buying Guide

Look for sauces with quality tomatoes and real cream. Check sodium content.

Flavor Pairings

Pasta (especially Penne) Chicken Meatballs Pizza Base Gnocchi