Learn how to make a mouthwatering tomato sauce from scratch with this easy step-by-step recipe. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this simple tomato sauce will elevate any pasta dish or enhance the flavor of other recipes. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a versatile and flavorful sauce to impress your family and friends.
Choosing the Best Tomatoes
To create a truly outstanding tomato sauce, it's crucial to start with the best tomatoes. Look for ripe, vibrant tomatoes that are firm but slightly soft to touch. Ideally, opt for San Marzano tomatoes, known for their rich flavor and low acidity. However, other varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes can also produce excellent results.
Ingredients You'll Need
Gather these simple but flavorful ingredients:
- 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for added freshness)
Preparing the Tomatoes
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and cut a small 'X' shape on the bottom of each tomato. This will make it easier to peel off the skin later. Fill a pot with water, bring it to a boil, and carefully place the tomatoes in the boiling water. Allow them to cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Once the skin starts to peel back, remove the tomatoes using a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool. After a minute or two, peel off the skin using your hands or a knife.
Sautéing the Onion and Garlic
Chop the onion and garlic into fine pieces. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly become bitter.
Blending the Tomatoes
Cut the peeled tomatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Add them to the saucepan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. After the tomatoes have softened and released their juices, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender to puree until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse the blender a few times to achieve the desired texture.
Adding Fresh Basil
For an extra burst of freshness, tear a handful of fresh basil leaves and add them to the sauce. Stir it gently to distribute the flavors evenly. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the basil's aroma to infuse into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serving and Storing
Your homemade tomato sauce is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it over your favorite pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or include it in various recipes that call for tomato sauce. If you have any leftovers, allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, freeze it for long-term storage and thaw whenever you're craving a taste of homemade goodness.
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