Fresh Tomato Sauce

Name: Fresh Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 cups
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 kg kg ripe tomatoes (about 4.5 lbs, washed and cored); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon sugar (to taste); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, to taste); 1 handful fresh basil leaves (torn); 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

60 min 6 cups Easy

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Fresh Tomato Sauce

A vibrant and fresh tomato sauce using ripe tomatoes, made entirely by hand without any machines.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Tomato sauce is a staple in many cuisines, but making it with fresh tomatoes can elevate your dishes to a new level. This recipe focuses on using the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh tomatoes, creating a sauce that's both simple and delicious. Using fresh tomatoes allows you to capture the peak of their flavour, bringing a burst of freshness to your meals. Whether you're topping pasta, pizza, or using it as a base for other recipes, this sauce will surely impress.

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Score the bottom of each tomato with a small 'X'. Blanch tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water to cool. Peel and chop.

Pro tip: Blanching makes peeling easier.

Sauté Aromatics

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

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Add Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Pro tip: Adjust sugar based on tomato sweetness.

Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Pro tip: Crush tomatoes with a spoon for a smoother texture.

Finish with Basil and Vinegar

Stir in torn basil leaves and red wine vinegar. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.

Pro tip: The vinegar adds a nice tang to balance flavours.

Serve or Store

Use immediately over pasta or let cool before storing in containers.

Pro tip: Cool completely before freezing.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavour.
Adjust seasoning to taste as it simmers.
Chop ingredients finely for a smoother sauce.
Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a tomato sauce recipe?

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, add fresh chopped tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer until thickened.

What is a recipe for tomato sauce with fresh tomatoes?

Peel and chop ripe tomatoes, sauté with onions and garlic, season, and simmer until thick. Finish with basil and red wine vinegar.

How can I use this tomato sauce?

This sauce is perfect for pasta, pizzas, or as a base for casseroles and other dishes.

What makes an Italian tomato sauce?

Italian tomato sauce often includes fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, cooked slowly to develop flavours.

Can I make tomato sauce without a blender?

Yes, this recipe is designed to be made by hand without any machines, relying on chopping and simmering.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fresh tomato sauce over your favourite pasta, or use it as a pizza base. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables and meats. To store, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

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