[carlo3b]

The missing ingredients are the spices, and that makes all of the difference.. Being from Naples, (I’m Southern Italian), tells me that Oregano, is the predominant spice, with Basil and Rosemary, playing an important but secondary role, plus garlic, salt and red pepper..

I didn’t see onions or green peppers, or tomato paste, which are usually in the base sauces in Southern Italy.. I’m curious about the tomato JUICE.. That may be a West Texas addition.. LOL

More minced Garlic and some red pepper is to taste.. Don’t add the spices until the last 20-30 minutes, except for the garlic which is added last, during the sauteing of the ground beef, green pepper and onions..

Now, let me say that every family has their own recipe, with particular combination of spices that become their own flavor, even within the same family.. That flavor is what becomes the standard that all others are measured, so good luck..

[lysie]

It happens that I was at an event recently where I met someone who was a neighbor of my paternal grandparents. Firenze is our family name. Needless to say...she told me about the aroma from gram's house when she was cooking.

[berdie]

Thanks for the tips! I’ll try again...probably later this week.