ITALIAN TOMATO SAUCE

Steps:

• Place a food mill over a Dutch oven or other large deep pan, and pass the tomatoes through until only the seeds remain; or seed the tomatoes, pure in a food processor and pour in the pan. Add 2 cups water, oregano, and basil, if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
• Place sausage in a skillet and add water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook, covered, until surface is opaque, about 3 minutes. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Return sausage to skillet and place over medium-high heat. Prick sausages all over with a fork to release oil into the pan; cook until browned on all sides. Transfer to the pot of sauce.
• Season the pork with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the pork and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, and add onion and garlic. Cover and cook until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Transfer contents of skillet to the pot of sauce.
• Simmer the sauce until the pork is tender, 2 to 3 hours. To serve, remove meats and place on a serving platter to pass separately, and use the sauce to dress pasta.