Step 1

Heat the olive oil and add the pancetta or ham bone, cook slowly without browning

Step 2

Add the diced carrot and onion, and sauté over medium heat until cooked through (but not browned)

Step 3

Sprinkle the flour and stir, not allowing the flour to burn or take on color, but cooking it for a couple of minutes

Step 4

Add the tomato paste, the diced tomatoes, water, garlic cloves, and bay leaves

Step 5

Add salt and pepper, and a bit of sugar if the tomatoes are very acidic

Step 6

Simmer slowly for about an hour, skimming if necessary

Step 7

Strain through a colander and add salt and pepper as needed