Description
A classic homemade tomato sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and basil. This versatile sauce is simmered to perfection with simple seasonings, creating a rich and flavorful base ideal for pasta, pizza, or any dish that calls for a fresh tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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 and finely chop the onion and basil to maximize their flavor release during cooking.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the 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, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to develop.
- Season and finish: Stir in the fresh basil leaves, salt, black pepper, and optional sugar. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or pulse gently in a blender.
- Serve or store: Use the tomato sauce immediately in your favorite recipes, or allow it to cool completely and store in airtight containers for future use.
Notes
- Peeling tomatoes helps create a smoother sauce texture.
- Optional sugar balances the acidity if the tomatoes are too tart.
- The sauce can be blended to your preferred consistency using an immersion or countertop blender.
- Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Fresh basil added at the end preserves its bright flavor.
