VEGETARIAN SPAGHETTI SAUCE

1 lg. onion, chopped
12 fresh mushrooms, chopped
3 tbsp. butter or olive oil
1/2 tsp. instant minced garlic
1/2 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. basil
1 tsp. mint leaves
2 to 3 bay leaves
1/2 tsp. sugar
Salt & pepper to taste
1 (28 oz.) can pear tomatoes
1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
1 3/4 c. water

Saute onions and mushrooms in oil or butter in a 3 quart saucepan. Add garlic and herbs and spices. Stir and simmer 3 minutes. Then add tomatoes, tomato paste and water. Simmer uncovered 30 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Yields 4 generous servings.