Table of Contents
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Introduction
There’s nothing like the rich, full flavour of homemade tomato sauce, especially when it’s made from garden-fresh tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for those looking to make the most out of their seasonal produce and indulge in some home cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a cooking enthusiast, this tomato sauce recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 10-12 ripe garden tomatoes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
- Blender or food processor
Tomato Sauce Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by blanching your tomatoes to easily peel off the skins. Make an “X” on the bottom of each tomato and immerse them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath. Once cooled, the skins should slip off easily. Core and roughly chop the tomatoes, reserving the juices.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your liking.
- Add Herbs and Seasonings: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
- Final Adjustments: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too acidic, a little more sugar can help balance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile tomato sauce can be used in a myriad of dishes. Serve it over freshly cooked pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or pair it with your favourite meatballs for a comforting meal. It also freezes beautifully, allowing you to capture the essence of summer’s bounty for enjoyment year-round.
Preserving Your Sauce
For those looking to preserve their garden-fresh tomato sauce, canning is an excellent option. Ensure to follow safe canning practices, such as using a pressure canner and sterilizing your jars, to enjoy your homemade sauce safely throughout the year.
This garden-fresh tomato sauce recipe celebrates the simplicity and robust flavors of homegrown produce. It’s a testament to the joy of gardening and the satisfaction of cooking with ingredients you’ve nurtured from seed to table. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with this delicious, versatile sauce that encapsulates the very essence of summer.