Description
A simple and fresh homemade tomato sauce made by simmering fresh tomatoes with sautéed garlic and onions, infused with fragrant basil, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for other dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Sauce Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (to reduce acidity)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash and peel the tomatoes, then chop them into chunks. Mince the garlic, finely chop the onion and basil to ensure they release their full flavor during cooking.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, stirring well to break down the tomatoes and release their juices. Simmer uncovered on low-medium heat for 20-30 minutes to thicken the sauce and deepen the flavors.
- Season and finish: Stir in fresh basil, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or pulse gently in a blender.
- Serve or store: Use the tomato sauce immediately in your favorite dishes, or cool completely and store in airtight containers for later use.
Notes
- Peeling tomatoes helps create a smoother sauce texture.
- Simmering time can be adjusted based on desired thickness.
- Optional sugar helps balance acidity if needed.
- Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor; dried basil can be used but adjust quantity accordingly.
- The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
