What is Marinara Sauce in the UK Called?

Marinara sauce is a popular Italian sauce known for its simple yet flavorful blend of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano. While familiar in the United States and Italy, the term isn’t as common in the UK. So, what do people in the UK call marinara sauce? This article explores the British name for marinara sauce, its uses, and its growing popularity in the UK food scene.

Marinara Sauce in the UK: What’s It Called?

In the UK, the name marinara sauce is not widely used. Instead, many people refer to it as “tomato sauce” or “Napolitana sauce.” These sauces often share similar ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, but the names differ.

Common UK Terms: In supermarkets and restaurants, you might find marinara-like sauces labeled as “tomato and herb sauce,” “pizza sauce,” or “pasta sauce.” Unlike in the US, the UK tends to use broader terms.
Culinary Language Differences: These naming differences highlight how culinary terms vary between the UK and the US. In the UK, “tomato sauce” usually describes a smoother sauce, often used as a pizza base or in dishes like spaghetti Bolognese.

To learn more about these differences, check out this article on marinara vs. pasta sauce.

Why Does the Name Differ?

Several factors influence the difference in naming between the UK and the US. British cuisine has long had French influences, which led to more generic sauce names. Italian immigrants arrived later in the UK than in the US, so terms like “marinara” are less common in everyday British cooking.

Marinara Sauce vs. Tomato Sauce: What’s the Difference?

Many people in the UK use marinara sauce and “tomato sauce” interchangeably, but they are not the same.

Ingredients and Preparation: Marinara sauce is quick to prepare, often ready in 20-30 minutes. It contains tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs, with no meat or dairy. In contrast, “tomato sauce” in the UK might be smoother and include extra ingredients like carrots, celery, or cream for a richer texture.
Culinary Uses: In the UK, “tomato sauce” is versatile. It appears in various dishes, from pizza bases (learn more about using marinara sauce as a base for breakfast pizza in this recipe) to pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese. Meanwhile, marinara sauce often serves as a sauce for pasta or as a dipping sauce.

To explore more about these differences, see this comparison of marinara and tomato sauce.

Marinara or Napolitana? Understanding the Confusion

Some UK cooks refer to “Napolitana sauce,” which is similar to marinara but may include anchovies or capers. This adds confusion for home cooks and diners who might not know the subtle differences.

How the UK Views Marinara Sauce

In the UK, marinara sauce isn’t as widely recognized, but its popularity is growing. More UK restaurants now feature marinara dishes, and home cooks are experimenting with it.

Popular Dishes with Marinara Sauce: UK restaurants use marinara in dishes like spaghetti, chicken parmesan, and seafood. Its versatility also makes it a great choice for vegetarian and vegan dishes, as it provides a hearty base without meat or dairy.
Where to Find Marinara Sauce: You can find marinara-like sauces in UK supermarkets under labels like “pasta sauce” or “tomato and herb sauce.” Italian restaurants, especially in bigger cities, offer dishes with marinara sauce, reflecting a growing demand for authentic Italian flavors.
Italian Cuisine’s Rise in the UK: As Italian cuisine becomes more popular, a wider variety of sauces, including marinara, are becoming available. More British home cooks are also trying their hand at making marinara sauce from scratch, influenced by a trend toward fresh, homemade meals.

For more Italian sauce recipes and their adaptations in the UK, visit De Cecco Pasta from Italy.

The Origins of Marinara Sauce

The name “marinara” comes from “marinaro,” an Italian word meaning “of the sea.” Many believe sailors in Naples created marinara sauce in the 16th century, soon after tomatoes arrived from the Americas. Its simplicity and easy preservation made it ideal for long sea voyages.

Evolution of Marinara Sauce: Over time, marinara sauce became a staple in Italian cuisine. Its simple preparation using just a few fresh ingredients helped it remain a favorite. It was quick to make and delivered rich flavors.
How Marinara Spread Worldwide: Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions, including marinara sauce, to many parts of the world. In the US, marinara became a key part of Italian-American cuisine. In the UK, it took longer to catch on due to different culinary influences and immigration patterns.

For more on how marinara sauce spread globally, check out this article on the origins of marinara sauce.

Marinara Sauce Around the World

Although marinara sauce started in Italy, people worldwide have adapted it. In the UK, it’s just one of many tomato-based sauces in the culinary scene.

Comparing Global Tomato-Based Sauces: Similar sauces exist in many cuisines, like Mexican salsa, French tomato concasse, and Greek kokkino. Each uses tomatoes but adds unique spices and herbs, creating diverse flavors.
Local Adaptations of Marinara: Around the world, marinara has been adjusted to fit local tastes. In the UK, some versions might include ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or extra vegetables. This flexibility makes marinara sauce a popular choice among home cooks.
Marketing Marinara Globally: Worldwide, marketers use different names for marinara sauce to fit local preferences. In the UK, it may be labeled “tomato and basil sauce” or “Italian-style pasta sauce,” appealing to those seeking familiar yet authentic flavors.

For more recipes and tips on pairing marinara with different types of pasta, visit De Cecco Pasta Recipes: Delicious Italian Classics.

How to Make Marinara Sauce at Home in the UK

If you want to make marinara sauce at home in the UK, there are ways to adapt traditional recipes to suit local ingredients and tastes.

Using UK Ingredients: The main ingredients for marinara—tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil—are easy to find in the UK. Some cooks tweak the recipe by using British-grown tomatoes or adding a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
Finding Quality Ingredients: Good tomatoes, either fresh or canned, are crucial for a great marinara. Fresh garlic and quality olive oil are also key. Most UK supermarkets and local farmers’ markets stock these ingredients.
Variations for Home Cooks: UK home cooks often put their own twist on marinara by adding ingredients like red wine or chili. These adjustments allow for personal preference while keeping the sauce’s essential character.

For a unique twist, try the Five Cheese Marinara Recipe on JanetRecipes.

Nutritional Benefits of Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce offers several nutritional benefits, making it a healthy choice for many meals.

Health Benefits: Tomatoes, the base of marinara sauce, are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which may reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties, and olive oil adds healthy fats that benefit heart health.
A Low-Calorie Option: Marinara sauce is low in calories compared to cream-based sauces. To make it even lighter, reduce the amount of olive oil or add more vegetables.
Diet-Friendly: Marinara sauce fits various diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free, making it a versatile option for many people.

Popular UK Alternatives to Marinara Sauce

In the UK, several tomato-based sauces serve as popular alternatives to marinara in different dishes:

Passata: This smooth, sieved tomato sauce is often a base for soups, stews, or other pasta sauces. Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a favorite among UK home cooks.
Napolitana Sauce: Similar to marinara, Napolitana sauce might include more herbs and a bit of wine for a deeper flavor. It’s often used in pasta dishes or as a base for baked dishes like lasagna.
Ragu and Bolognese: Though not direct alternatives to marinara, these meat-based sauces are popular in the UK for heartier pasta dishes.
Experimenting with Marinara: Many UK chefs and home cooks enjoy blending marinara with local ingredients or creating fusion dishes that mix Italian and British flavors.

For more ideas on how to use marinara sauce in different dishes, visit this guide on what goes with chicken salad sandwiches.

Conclusion: The Future of Marinara Sauce in the UK

As Italian cuisine gains popularity in the UK, marinara sauce is also becoming more recognized. Its simple preparation, rich flavor, and versatility make it a sauce that could soon become a staple in both UK supermarkets and home kitchens.

Changing Sauce Trends: UK consumers are showing a preference for fresh, homemade sauces with authentic flavors. This trend is boosting demand for marinara and similar products, supported by cookbooks, TV shows, and online content focused on traditional Italian cooking.
The Rise of Italian Cuisine: As more British people explore international cuisines, marinara sauce is set to become a regular choice in households that value traditional Italian cooking. Its versatility makes it ideal for everyday meals and special occasions.