You have heard that New Jersey is called the garden state. Many people, like me, had never traveled to the countryside of this beautiful state! After stopping at a roadside produce stand and picking up some of the most gorgeous tomatoes I have ever tasted, I hurried home (to the RV) to make what is known as New Jersey “gravy”. A rich and flavorful tomato sauce that you can put over any kind of pasta you wish. Now…how could I make this dog friendly AND person friendly?

You may be under the impression that tomatoes are on a list of “no’no’s” for dogs. However, tomatoes are full of endless health benefits primarily due to the high levels of antioxidants, especially lycopene, beta-carotene, vitamin C and phenols. It is only the stems and leaves which are poisonous to dogs. So leave those off of course, cook up a batch of New Jersey Growlin’ Gravy and enjoy!
This recipe has no salt or garlic. To make it person friendly, we highly suggest adding those ingredients to your batch!
New Jersey Growlin’ Gravy For Dogs
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb pork neck bones
1 pound stew meat or beef cut of your choice
1/2 cup of grated, organic carrots
1/2 cup of diced celery
1/2 cup diced, yellow squash
2 (28 ounce) cans organic, crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon fresh oregano
Directions
In a large pot, brown pork bones and beef. Remove meat and discard oil. Add the carrots, celery and yellow squash to the pan and sauce for 10-15 minutes. Add the beef back in (not the bones) and add tomatoes, basil and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 3 hours or until meat is tender and gravy has thickened.
Serve over a whole wheat or non-enriched pasta of your choice for your dog. Never serve your dog hot food. Let cool completely before eating. Refrigerate unused portions for up to three days.
Disclaimer: Also check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet. This is a “treat” and not to be used as a regular meal replacement.