Basic Tomato Sauce

Name: Basic Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1.5 kg ripe tomatoes (peeled and chopped); 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 handful fresh basil leaves (torn)

50 min 6 servings Easy

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Basic Tomato Sauce

A versatile and rich tomato sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for various dishes.

Prep

10 min

Cook

40 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

A basic tomato sauce is a staple in many kitchens, versatile enough to be used in a variety of dishes from pasta to pizza. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes, enhanced with aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic. Homemade tomato sauce is far superior to store-bought varieties, offering a depth of flavour that you can customize to your liking. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to bring fresh, homemade sauce to your table.

Ingredients

Servings

Basic Tomato Sauce

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Peel and chop the tomatoes, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.

Pro tip: To easily peel tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then transfer to ice water.

Cook the onions and garlic

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

Add tomatoes and simmer

Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan. Stir in sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Simmering helps to thicken the sauce and concentrate the flavours.

Adjust seasoning

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar if necessary.

Pro tip: If using canned tomatoes, you might need less sugar.

Add fresh basil

Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let them wilt for a few minutes before removing the sauce from the heat.

Pro tip: Adding basil at the end preserves its fresh flavour and aroma.

Serve or store

Use immediately with pasta or another dish, or let cool and store in airtight containers.

Pro tip: For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender or in a countertop blender after cooling.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavour.</li><li>Adjust salt and sugar to taste after simmering.</li><li>Fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic touch.</li><li>For a smoother sauce, blend after cooking.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

This basic tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. It pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, can be used as a base for soups, or spread over pizza for an authentic Italian taste. Consider pairing this sauce with a robust red wine or a simple garlic bread. It's a versatile addition to any meal, enhancing flavours and providing a comforting, homemade touch.