Tomato Sauce Recipe

Tomato sauce is a kitchen essential that adds depth and flavor to countless dishes, from pasta and pizzas to stews and casseroles. Making your own tomato sauce from scratch not only allows you to control the ingredients but also ensures a fresher, more vibrant flavor that store-bought versions often lack. Here’s a simple yet versatile recipe for homemade tomato sauce that will elevate your cooking to the next level.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, diced (choose Roma or plum tomatoes for richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for added freshness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by blanching the tomatoes. Score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato and drop them into boiling water for about 1 minute. Remove and plunge them into ice water. Peel off the skins, core, and dice the tomatoes. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan, along with any juices that may have accumulated. Stir well to combine. If using, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and flavors will meld together beautifully.
5. Finish with Basil (Optional): If using, stir in chopped fresh basil leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a burst of herbaceous freshness.
6. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is.
7. Serve or Store: Use the sauce immediately over pasta, as a pizza base, or store it for later use. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for several months.

Tips for Perfect Tomato Sauce:

• Tomato Selection: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best results. Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal due to their meaty texture and rich taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Versatility: Customize your sauce by adding red pepper flakes for heat, oregano for a more Italian flair, or even a splash of red wine for depth.

Homemade tomato sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, this sauce will become a staple in your culinary repertoire, adding a touch of homemade goodness to every dish it graces.