Homemade Tomato Sauce
Introduction
Homemade tomato sauce is a staple in many kitchens. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, using it as a pizza base, or adding it to your favorite recipes, a good tomato sauce can elevate your meals.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own tomato sauce allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. It’s fresher and healthier than store-bought options, which may contain preservatives and added sugars. Plus, it’s an easy and satisfying recipe that you can whip up in no time!
How to Make Homemade Tomato Sauce
Making homemade tomato sauce is straightforward. Here is what you will need and how to do it.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve with pasta or use as desired.
How to Serve Homemade Tomato Sauce
Homemade tomato sauce is versatile. You can serve it with your favorite pasta, use it as a pizza sauce, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Garnish with fresh basil for a delightful touch and extra flavor!
How to Store Homemade Tomato Sauce
To store your homemade tomato sauce, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your container for easy identification later.
Tips to Make Homemade Tomato Sauce
- Use ripe tomatoes for better flavor if you prefer fresh tomatoes.
- Adjust the herbs and spices to your preference—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!
- For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender after cooking.
Variation
You can customize your homemade tomato sauce by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even meat for a meat sauce. Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or parsley, to change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, fresh tomatoes work well! You will need about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch and peel them before using.
Q2: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Let the sauce simmer longer to reduce liquid or add a small amount of tomato paste for thicker consistency.
Q3: Is homemade tomato sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes, homemade tomato sauce is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding anything that contains gluten.
Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato sauce, packed with flavors and perfect for a variety of dishes!
Homemade Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- optional Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil to the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve with pasta or use as desired.
