Serves 6
55 min
Basic Tomato Sauce
Recipe GLPR77eb5b63d95179
A vibrant, versatile tomato sauce made from fresh ripe tomatoes, garlic, and aromatics. This classic preparation features a balanced blend of herbs and spices that allows the natural sweetness of tomatoes to shine. Perfect as a foundation for pasta, soups, or any dish requiring a flavorful tomato base. The slow cooking develops deep, complex flavors while maintaining a bright finish.
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Ingredients
12 large ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (or 2 cans chopped tomatoes if fresh unavailable)
3 medium onions, finely chopped
7 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red chilli flakes, or to taste
1 tablespoon sugar
10 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onions and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and begin to soften, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the softened onions and stir continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown.
Pour in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juices) and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic base.
Add the dried oregano, red chilli flakes, and sugar to the pot. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help break down the tomatoes into a smooth consistency.
Stir in the torn fresh basil leaves and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the basil to infuse the sauce.
Remove from heat and use immediately, or allow to cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
