The Godfather (1972) – Clemenza Pasta Sauce
The Godfather is a cinematic masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades.
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and released in 1972, the movie tells the story of the Corleone family, a powerful mafia clan based in New York City. The film features an all-star cast, including Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and James Caan, and is renowned for its iconic scenes and memorable quotes. One such scene is the Clemenza sauce scene, where Peter Clemenza (played by Richard S. Castellano) teaches Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) how to make spaghetti sauce. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this classic moment in movie history.
The Clemenza Pasta sauce scene
takes place early in the movie, shortly after the wedding of Don Corleone’s daughter. Michael, who is not yet involved in his family’s criminal activities, is hanging out with some of his father’s associates, including Clemenza. The group prepares to cook dinner, and Clemenza makes the sauce for the spaghetti.
As he works, Clemenza gives Michael some tips on how to cook the perfect sauce. He tells him to add a little sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes and to stir the sauce constantly to prevent it from burning. He also gives Michael a taste of the sauce, telling him that “you start out with a little bit of oil. Then you fry some garlic. Then you throw in some tomatoes, and tomato paste, and you fry it; you make sure it doesn’t stick. You get it to a boil; you shove in all your sausage and your meatballs; heh…? And a little bit of wine. An’ a little bit of sugar, and that’s my trick.”
As the scene progresses, Clemenza’s sauce takes on a life of its own. The aroma fills the room, and everyone who tastes it raves about how good it is. Even Michael, who is not a fan of Italian food, can’t resist the delicious sauce.
How to make a bloody Clemenza Pasta Sauce
Course: MainDifficulty: XXThe Clemenza sauce scene is significant for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a masterclass in Italian cooking. Clemenza’s recipe is simple yet effective, and his tips on cooking the sauce are invaluable. The scene also serves to establish the camaraderie between Michael and the other members of his father’s “family.” Though Michael is not yet involved in their illegal activities, he is already part of their inner circle, and the sauce scene is a way of cementing his status.
Perhaps most importantly, the Clemenza sauce scene is an example of how food can be used to create a sense of community and connection. In the world of the Corleones, meals are a time for family and friends to come together, share stories, and bond over good food. Even in the midst of violence and betrayal, the act of preparing and sharing a meal can provide a sense of comfort and stability.
Ingredients
2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes (28 ounces each)
1/2 cup of olive oil
1/2 cup of diced pancetta
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until it starts to brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or a fork, then add them to the pot along with their juices. Stir to combine.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add cooked sausage or meatballs to the pot and let them simmer in the sauce for another 10-15 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over spaghetti or your favourite pasta, and enjoy!
Recipe Video
Notes
- The Godfather is a classic movie that has stood the test of time, and the Clemenza sauce scene is one of its most memorable moments. Through the act of cooking and sharing a meal, the characters in the movie form bonds and build relationships that are integral to the story. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for a delicious spaghetti sauce recipe, the Clemenza sauce is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and channel your inner Peter Clemenza as you cook up a batch of this iconic sauce.
