Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a journey to create a delectable homemade tomato sauce that captures the essence of ripe, sun-kissed tomatoes. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, a pizza lover, or simply someone who relishes the richness of a well-made sauce, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to crafting a tomato sauce that’s bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients:
1.5 kg ripe tomatoes (a mix of plum, cherry, and vine tomatoes for a complex taste)
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Tomato Preparation:
Begin by blanching the ripe tomatoes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut a small ‘X’ at the bottom of each tomato and carefully drop them into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove the tomatoes and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will make peeling the skins easier. Once cooled, peel the tomatoes, remove the cores, and roughly chop them. Reserve the juices.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Simmering the Sauce:
Add the chopped tomatoes, along with their juices, to the saucepan. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. If the tomatoes are particularly acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavours. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Blending and Finishing:
After simmering, the tomatoes should have broken down and the sauce should have thickened. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending), carefully blend the sauce until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches. Return the blended sauce to the saucepan and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
5. Serving:
Your homemade tomato sauce is now ready to be savoured! Serve the sauce over your favourite pasta, spread it onto pizzas, or use it as a base for various Italian dishes. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of aromatic flavor.
Congratulations, you’ve just mastered the art of creating a luscious homemade tomato sauce that’s sure to elevate your meals to new heights. The harmonious blend of ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs will transport your taste buds to an Italian garden. Experiment with this versatile sauce to create endless culinary delights that are guaranteed to impress. Happy cooking!
