How to Make Italian Sauce with Fresh Tomatoes
Italian sauce is a staple in many Italian dishes, and making it with fresh tomatoes is a delightful way to enhance the flavors of your meals. Whether you’re preparing pasta, pizza, or a hearty stew, this homemade sauce will add a burst of freshness and authentic taste to your culinary creations. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making Italian sauce with fresh tomatoes, ensuring that you can enjoy the true essence of Italian cuisine in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Italian sauce with fresh tomatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 pounds of ripe tomatoes
– 1 large onion
– 4 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
1. Prepare the tomatoes: Start by peeling the tomatoes. You can do this by boiling them in hot water for about 30 seconds, then plunge them into ice water to loosen the skin. Once the skin is loose, remove it with your fingers or a paring knife. Cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds and membranes. Dice the tomatoes into small pieces.
2. Chop the onion and garlic: Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.
3. Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the pot, along with the dried oregano and basil. Stir well to combine.
5. Season the sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to your preference.
6. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together.
7. Taste and adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once the sauce is ready, you can serve it over your favorite pasta, pizza, or as a base for a delicious stew. Enjoy your homemade Italian sauce with fresh tomatoes!
Making Italian sauce with fresh tomatoes is a rewarding experience that brings the essence of Italy into your kitchen. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic sauce that will impress your family and friends. Buon appetito!
