The true magic of homemade tomato sauce lies in its simplicity and the ability to transform basic ingredients into a robust, comforting classic. The deep, rich aroma of simmering tomatoes mingled with the earthy notes of dried basil and oregano fills the kitchen, promising a taste that’s both nostalgic and profoundly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using canned tomatoes, crush them by hand or with a spoon to make them easier to cook down. This step helps in creating a smoother sauce.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
- Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. The tomato paste will help thicken the sauce and give it a rich, deep flavor. Mix everything together until the paste is fully incorporated.
- Season the Sauce: Add the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. These herbs are classic in tomato sauce and provide a fragrant, savory depth. Stir in the sugar if desired; this can help counteract the natural acidity of the tomatoes, but it’s optional based on your taste preference.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit of water if it becomes too thick.
- Season to Taste: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If the sauce tastes too acidic, you can add a bit more sugar.
- Finish and Serve: Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness and flavor, remove it from heat. For a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce with an immersion blender or in batches with a regular blender. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
- Store or Serve: Let the sauce cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. Use it as a base for pasta, pizza, or any dish that calls for a robust tomato sauce.
