Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot. Once shimmering, add onions and sauté until fragrant. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent.

Add half of brandy/red wine, simmer briefly and deglaze the pot.

Add tomato paste and then tomatoes, and crush tomatoes against the side of the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.

Stir in bay leaves, basil, and oregano. Bring pot up to a boil.

Turn heat down and simmer for 1 hour (minimum).

Remove whole herbs and turn off heat. Add butter and remaining brandy/wine and stir until incorporated. Season to taste.