Traditional Tomato Sauce

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're on the hunt for an authentic tomato sauce that's packed with fresh flavors, you've stumbled upon a gem. This Traditional Tomato Sauce recipe is your go-to for rich, homemade goodness, perfect for pasta or as a base for other dishes. Let's dive in!

Ingredients for Traditional Tomato Sauce

Fresh tomatoes are the star of the show, providing that vibrant, tangy base. Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich depth and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully. Onion and garlic are the aromatic foundation, infusing the sauce with savory goodness. A touch of salt and black pepper is essential to bring out and balance the flavors. A pinch of sugar cuts through the acidity of the tomatoes. Dried oregano offers a hint of Mediterranean flair, while fresh basil rounds out the sauce with a burst of freshness at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for maximum flavor.
  • Try adding a splash of red wine for an extra layer of depth.
  • If you like a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender after cooking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container; it tastes even better the next day!

Serving Suggestions

This sauce pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or penne pasta. Try using it as a base for homemade pizza or spoon it over grilled chicken for a delightful twist. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top never hurts either!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Continue simmering the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Is this sauce freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw before use.

Traditional Tomato Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

First off, get a large pot of water boiling and set up an ice bath. It's crucial for peeling the tomatoes easily. Score the bottom of each tomato with an X using a sharp knife. This little trick makes peeling a breeze after blanching them for just a minute. Once they're in the ice bath, the skins practically fall off.

Next, chop up the peeled tomatoes and set them aside. Now, heat up your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it sauté until it's nice and translucent, which takes about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

Now, it's time to bring in the star of the show. Add your chopped tomatoes, along with salt, black pepper, sugar, and oregano. Let everything simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom and the sauce thickens evenly.

Finally, stir in the fresh basil and let it simmer for another five minutes. Give it a taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed. After all, who knows your taste better than you? Remove from heat, allow it to cool slightly, and it's ready to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses fresh, ripe tomatoes for unbeatable taste.
  • Simple and straightforward process with rewarding results.
  • No canned ingredients — pure, homemade flavor.
  • Versatile enough to pair with many dishes.

Ingredients

2 lbs fresh tomatoes
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare an ice bath.
2. Score the bottom of each tomato with an X and blanch in boiling water for 1 minute.
3. Transfer tomatoes to ice bath and peel skins.
4. Chop tomatoes and set aside.
5. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
6. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
7. Add garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
8. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, and oregano.
9. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
10. Stir in fresh basil and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
12. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

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