Creating homemade tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes is a rewarding and versatile culinary endeavor. Here is a step-by-step guide to making your own homemade tomato sauce:
Ingredients:
- 3 kg (6.5 lb) Plum/Roma tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 teaspoons Oregano (optional)
- 7-8 Basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice/vinegar (if canning, use ¼ cup)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes:- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- While the water is heating, prepare an ice bath in a bowl.
- Core out the stems from the tomatoes and make a shallow "X" on the bottom of each tomato.
- Place the tomatoes into the boiling water for 30-60 seconds.
- Quickly transfer the blanched tomatoes to the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Once cooled, peel the skin from the tomatoes.
- Chop the peeled tomatoes into small chunks and set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over low heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become golden, which should take around 7-8 minutes.
- Add crushed garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot.
- Season with salt, oregano, and basil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let it simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency (most of the liquid should evaporate, and the tomatoes should resemble a thick, jam-like consistency).
- Stir in the lemon juice or vinegar at the end and turn off the heat.
- If you prefer a smoother tomato sauce, you can use a hand blender to puree the sauce until it reaches your desired texture.
- Transfer the sauce to a jar.
Notes:
- The best tomatoes for homemade sauce are Roma tomatoes, Plum tomatoes, San Marzano, or a combination of several types. Ripe tomatoes are essential.
- The addition of onion, garlic, basil, and oregano is optional; you can omit them or use some based on your preferences.
- If you plan to can the sauce for long-term storage, ensure you follow proper canning procedures to maintain freshness and safety.
- For short-term storage, store the sauce in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for 2-3 months.