BabyJane Hudson wrote:
> I have never made a home made spaghetti or marinara sauce, but I will
> try soon. What are the basic essential spices one should have on hand
> when cooking such sauces? Is there a pre-made mixture, (brand) that
> most agree is the best if not using fresh spices?


There are other options besides a premade mixture. The most commonly
used spices for a red sauce would probably be basil, pepper and oregano.
You can just add whatever amounts you like to suit your taste.



>
> Are homemade sauces that are simple as good or better than jar sauces
> one buys in a store?
>

I think so. Jarred sauces are typically made from tomatoe paste with
tons of corn syrup and salt added to make up for the lack of tomatoe
flavor.


> Thanks,
> Jane Hudson