The History of Vodka Sauce

Vodka sauce also referred to as penne alla vodka, is a long-standing tradition in Italian culture. A sauce that began as a quick and affordable way to impress women has become a staple in Italian cuisine. The sauce is creamy, delicious, and unanimously loved by everyone who tastes it. Its name can bring about some confusion, but don’t be fooled! This sauce is absolutely delicious over any pasta dish. Before you go out and try some penne alla vodka yourself, let’s take a look at the history behind this traditional Italian icon.

What is Vodka Sauce? 

Vodka sauce contains 3 major components: tomatoes, Italian herbs, and vodka. Strega by Nick Varano uses vine tomatoes mixed with heavy cream to create a smooth and velvety sauce served over penne pasta. Flour is occasionally added to the recipe to thicken the consistency if the sauce. Some chefs use fresh parsley to help balance out the weight of the cream in the sauce. Don’t forget the key ingredient: vodka! With hardly any heat, vodka can change the entire flavor profile of the dish and give it an added kick to balance the creamy sauce. Vodka sauce is a relatively simple recipe that can be attempted at home!

Popular Dishes Using Vodka Sauce:

• Penne with Chicken: You will almost always find a variation of this dish on any Italian restaurant menu. This dish combines tender penne pasta, chicken bites, and a rich vodka sauce. Vegetables can also be paired with the dish. 
• Lobster Alla Vodka: This dish combines two of the most delicious ingredients in the world. Lobster and vodka sauce. Strega offers this dish with a one-pound lobster, Fusilli, and Tomato Vodka Sauce. 
• Spicy Alla Vodka: This is a dish unique to Strega’s menu. Pasta drenched with spicy vodka sauce is thrown into a parmesan cheese wheel and prepared table-side. If you love cheese, you will adore this dish. 

The Origin of Vodka Sauce

The origin story for vodka sauce may vary depending on who you ask. Italians claim that the recipe was originated in a restaurant in the heart of Italy during the mid-’70s. Americans, however, claim that the sauce began by an Italian-American chef named Luigi Franzese at his restaurant in New York. Regardless of where the recipe began, there’s no denying the fact that the ingredients and cooking methods stem from traditional Italian cuisine. The recipe became popular because the ingredients used are very common and easily found. During the ’80s and ’90s, the recipe gained a reputation as something that was cooked by young men trying to impress their dates. 

Try Vodka Sauce in Boston! 

If you’re looking to get a taste of authentic Italian vodka sauce, what better place than the North End of Boston! The North End streets are lined with history. Along those beautiful streets sits a notable restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine. Strega by Nick Varano cooks only with the freshest ingredients and staying true to the traditional recipes and methods. Visit Strega for the best vodka sauce in all of Boston!

Pair your penne alla vodka with a stroll through the North End and enjoy the beautiful scenery, along with plenty of shops and activities to keep you busy. Finally, stop by The Original Strega to try the most authentic and exquisite Italian cuisine. Reserve your table today!

Contact our restaurant at 617.523.8481.