Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh, ripe tomatoes (about 9 medium)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Score a small “x” at the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds.
- Transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of cold water to cool, then peel off the skins.
- Remove the seeds, roughly chop the tomatoes, and set them aside.
- Cook the Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir in the basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finishing Touches:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- For a smoother texture, use a blender or food processor to puree to your desired consistency.
Tips:
- Add Herbs: Try adding oregano, thyme, or a bay leaf for extra flavor.
- Storage: Let the sauce cool, then store in airtight containers for up to 5 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your delicious homemade tomato sauce with pasta, pizza, or as a base for your favorite recipes!
