"For best results allow sauce to simmer for two hours. Also the olive oil, bay leaves and brown sugar are a must!!! I prefer Italian Sausage in mine because I love the flavor, but you could add ground beef or meatballs instead if you prefer. Also if you don't eat meat, it taste great with sauteed or canned mushrooms put in it at the end. Oh, and I highly recommend doubling the recipe and freezing half to use later...."