How to Make Fresh Tomato Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Did you know that making fresh tomato sauce at home is a piece of cake? Whether you're a culinary aficionado or a beginner in the kitchen, this straightforward recipe will guide you through the process of crafting a rich, flavorful tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes and other simple ingredients. This guide will cover the specifics of preparing Roma tomatoes, including the best sizes for the job, the right techniques for peeling and chopping, and the best methods for boiling and mashing.
Choosing and Preparing Roma Tomatoes
When it's time to select Roma tomatoes for your sauce, you'll be happy to know that eight to twelve medium-sized tomatoes will suffice for a large pot of sauce. A good quality Dutch Oven or slow cooker is also recommended. For the best results, start by washing the tomatoes and cutting them into quarters. Be sure to remove the hard white core found in the center of each piece.
Boiling and Mashing Roma Tomatoes
To start preparing the tomatoes, simply peel them, chop them, and add them to your pot. From there, add some water and boil them until the tomatoes have fully broken down. If you prefer, you can blend the tomatoes or strain them to remove excess seeds. This will produce a smoother sauce.
Adding Flavors to Your Tomato Sauce
Once the tomatoes are boiled and mashed, it's time to add more flavors to your sauce. Begin by sautéing a large onion sliced into circles and a few cloves of garlic (chopped or minced). Bell peppers and chili pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat, and oregano can be used fresh or dried. A full center palm rub of oregano, approximately equal to 1 full teaspoon, is recommended. This should be added after sautéing the onions and garlic.
Building the Base of Your Tomato Sauce
The base of the tomato sauce is built with a spoonful of sugar, soup stock, crushed tomatoes, and some olive oil. Start with a generous dose of olive oil to ensure a smooth base. Begin by adding crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. A full can of San Marzano or an equivalent amount of Hunts crushed tomatoes is suggested.
Cooking Down the Tomato Sauce
Once all the ingredients are combined, let the sauce simmer over low to medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add oregano or basil for additional flavor. The addition of wine is optional but can enhance the flavor. Red, white, or even Rose wines can be used. After adding wine, stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of water to thin the sauce if necessary.
Gasling the Tomatos Sauce
For an even richer and more flavorful sauce, consider using an electric or stovetop pot, or better yet, an Instant Pot on the slow cooker feature for approximately 6 hours. Check the sauce several times during the cooking process to ensure it doesn't burn and to adjust the taste as needed. If using an electric or stovetop pot, reduce the heat to low and stir the sauce occasionally. The sauce should be simmered for at least 6 hours to achieve the desired depth of flavor.
Finishing Touches and Serving
To give your sauce a final touch, you can add a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago at the end and blend it until well combined. If you prefer a cheese sauce, you can do so before serving. The sauce can be frozen for later use, but be sure to store it properly in an airtight container.
Bon Appétit!
#8212;This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the rich, flavorful taste of homemade tomato sauce. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature sauce, and enjoy it with your favorite pasta dishes.