How to make tomato sauce with peeled tomatoes

Tomato is a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes. Whether you want to use it as a base for pasta, a topping for pizza, or a flavor enhancer for soups and stews, making your own sauce can elevate the taste of your meals. While there are many variations of tomato sauce , here is a simple guide on how to make tomato sauce using .

To begin, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) of fresh tomatoes
– 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs such as , oregano, or parsley for added flavor

Now let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making tomato sauce with peeled tomatoes:

Step 1: Peel the Tomatoes
Start by placing a pot of water on the stove and bringing it to a boil. Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes and make a small, shallow incision on the bottom of each tomato. Carefully drop them into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. This blanching technique will make it easier to peel the tomatoes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of cold water. Once cooled, remove the skins by gently peeling them off. Set the peeled tomatoes aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant. This will take approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from burning.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Crush the peeled tomatoes with your hands or roughly chop them into chunks. Add the tomatoes to the saucepan, along with any juice that may have collected. Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. If desired, you can now add dried or fresh herbs of your choice to infuse the sauce with additional aromas and tastes.

Step 4: Simmer and Blend
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning to the bottom of the pan. As the tomatoes cook down, the sauce will thicken and develop a rich flavor. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the sauce until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids and allow the sauce to cool slightly before proceeding.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust
After simmering and blending, taste the tomato sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. For a touch of sweetness, you can add a dash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar. Keep in mind that tomato sauce continues to develop its flavors as it sits, so a small amount of seasoning adjustments may be necessary as you taste it later.

Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it into clean and airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for longer storage. Tomato sauce is incredibly versatile, and you can enjoy it in countless recipes. Use it as a sauce for pastas, meatballs, or lasagnas. It can also be used as a base for soups, stews, or even as a dip for bread and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

In conclusion, making your own tomato sauce using peeled tomatoes is a rewarding and relatively simple process. By following these steps, you can create a flavorful sauce that will add depth and richness to your favorite dishes. Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the sauce to your liking. Homemade tomato sauce is not only a healthier option compared to store-bought versions, but it also allows you to control the quality and taste. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious tomato sauce from scratch.