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Homemade Fresh Tomato Sauce

A vibrant homemade sauce bursting with flavor from ripe tomatoes and aromatic ingredients, perfect for pasta, pizza, and bruschetta.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds vine ripe or plum tomatoes The star of the sauce, providing rich flavor and natural sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste Provides a strong, aromatic flavor base.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
  • 4 sprigs basil sprigs Offers herbal notes and freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper Adds a touch of heat and depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Provides heat for a well-rounded flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon light brown sugar Balances acidity and adds a hint of sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
  2. Use a paring knife to cut 1-inch Xs on the bottoms of the tomatoes.
  3. Add the tomatoes to the boiling water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the skins start to split.
  4. Strain the tomatoes in a colander, transfer them to a baking sheet, peel them, and discard the skins.
  5. Cut the tomatoes into chunks, discarding the cores.
Cooking
  1. In a large saucepan, add the olive oil, garlic paste, tomato paste, basil sprigs, sea salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the garlic begins to brown (about 2 to 3 minutes).
  2. Add the tomatoes and juices, plus the brown sugar, and stir to combine. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes until thickened, stirring frequently.
  4. Remove from heat, discard basil stems, and add finely chopped basil leaves.
  5. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and enjoy immediately, or cool before storing in an airtight container.

Notes

This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool before storing to maintain quality. Perfect for various dishes.