Mums the Word Simple Homemade Tomato Sauce

Recipe Introduction

Ever wondered what makes Italian food so darn delicious? It often starts with the sauce, right? This homemade tomato sauce recipe is the foundation for so many amazing dishes.

Honestly, once you try making it from scratch, you will never go back.

Quick Hook

Want the best tomato sauce recipe that's easy and tastes like it came straight from Italy? This simple tomato sauce recipe is where it's at.

It's packed with fresh flavors and is surprisingly easy to make.

Brief Overview

This Italian tomato sauce is a classic, born from generations of home cooking. It's incredibly easy to make, taking about an hour from start to finish.

This tomato sauce from scratch will yield about 4 cups. That is enough for a pound of pasta, perfect for a family meal.

Main Benefits

It is healthy and packed with vitamins from fresh tomatoes. This fresh tomato sauce recipe is fantastic for any occasion! It is easy enough for a weeknight dinner or fancy enough for a weekend gathering.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare. The fresh flavor of the tomatoes really shines.

I remember the first time I made homemade pasta sauce recipe . I was so intimidated. I thought it would be super complicated.

But my Nonna showed me how easy it can be. And now I'm sharing that with you. Let me introduce you to a great step-by-step tomato sauce recipe .

Ready to find out how to make tomato sauce ? Let's dive into the ingredients you will need. This recipe is not only simple but totally customizable to your taste, from the level of spiciness to the amount of herbs you add.

Want a spicier marinara sauce recipe homemade ? Add more red pepper flakes!

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? To make this absolutely banging homemade tomato sauce , you'll need a few bits and bobs.

Nothing too fancy, promise! This is the best tomato sauce recipe ever. My mum taught me how to make tomato sauce , and now I'm sharing it with you!

Main Ingredients

Here's what you need to whip up this fresh tomato sauce recipe :

• 2 lbs (900g) fresh ripe tomatoes. Roma or San Marzano are ace , if you can find them. Alternatively, use two 28-ounce (800g each) cans of whole peeled tomatoes, undrained.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil. Good quality makes all the difference.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup).
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of a kick!).
• 1 teaspoon sugar (or more to taste). Tomatoes can be acidic, you know?
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable broth or water.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish).

Quality tomatoes are key! Look for vibrant color and a lovely smell. Canned tomatoes should be bright red and swimming in juice.

This will help you in your step-by-step tomato sauce recipe . Honestly? It's a game changer! It's a super simple tomato sauce recipe .

I use it all the time!

Seasoning Notes

Spices are where the magic happens. Oregano and garlic are essential for that authentic Italian tomato sauce flavour. Red pepper flakes add a cheeky bit of heat.

Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Don't be shy! If you're after a marinara sauce recipe homemade , just leave out the red pepper.

A dash of balsamic vinegar also adds a lovely depth! I'm obsessed with adding sugar when using canned tomatoes to cut through the acidity. Just trust me on this one!

Equipment Needed

Right, onto the tools. You won't need a load of clobber for this recipe.

• A large pot or Dutch oven.
• A wooden spoon or heat resistant spatula.
• An immersion blender (optional, for a smoother sauce).

If you don't have an immersion blender, a regular blender will do the trick. Just be super careful when blending hot liquids! Honestly, though, a fork works fine for a more rustic homemade pasta sauce recipe .

My grandma always did it that way! If you want to learn how to make tomato sauce , you gotta keep it simple.

Making Magic: My Go-To Homemade Tomato Sauce

Honestly, nothing beats a proper homemade tomato sauce . It's the smell, you know? That garlicky, herby aroma wafting through the kitchen.

It's proper comforting. Forget the jarred stuff. Let's dive into my version, what I'd call a simple tomato sauce recipe , passed down from my mum.

I reckon it's the best tomato sauce recipe ever.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First, essential mise en place , which fancy chefs use, means get everything ready. Chop 1/2 cup of onion. Mince 3 cloves garlic, fine.

Get your tomatoes sorted 900g of fresh ones or two 800g cans. It's all about being organised. For safety, watch your fingers when chopping.

The Fresh Tomato Sauce Recipe is way better with fresh tomatoes.

step-by-step: From Scratch to Scrumptious

1. Prep the tomatoes: Chop fresh ones roughly or crush canned ones.
2. Sauté onion in 2 tablespoons olive oil until soft. That's about 5 minutes .
3. Add garlic and cook 'til fragrant (about 1 minute ). Watch it, don't burn it!
4. Chuck in tomatoes, 1 teaspoon oregano, a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional), 1 teaspoon sugar, and salt and pepper.
5. Simmer it all for 45 to 60 minutes , covered, stirring now and then. This is where the magic happens, creating the Authentic Italian tomato sauce .
6. Blend for a smoother sauce if you like. Be careful of the heat!
7. Taste and tweak the seasoning.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Sauce Game

Want to make a marinara sauce recipe homemade taste even better? Slow cooking is your friend. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavour.

Common mistake? Not tasting as you go. Adjust the seasoning! For a make-ahead option, this homemade tomato sauce keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Consider this sauce as an Italian Tomato Sauce , ready to use and also you can see it as a step-by-step tomato sauce recipe , as well as a homemade pasta sauce recipe .

Recipe Notes

Right then, let's talk sauce! My homemade tomato sauce isn't just a recipe, it's a blank canvas. It is "Mum's the Word", and It's a flavour hug in a jar.

Honestly, the possibilities are endless. This best tomato sauce recipe is so versatile!

Serving Suggestions

Right, serving this amazing fresh tomato sauce recipe is the fun bit. Slap it on some perfectly cooked pasta. For plating, think simple.

A twirl of spaghetti, a generous dollop of sauce, and a scattering of fresh basil. Boom! Side wise, garlic bread is always a winner.

A crisp green salad cuts through the richness. Or, for something fancier, a glass of Chianti. You know? The classic Italian tomato sauce vibe.

Storage Tips

So, you've got leftovers? Lucky you! Stick it in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll happily last for about 3-4 days.

Want to freeze it? No worries. Portion it into freezer bags. It'll keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use it, just defrost it overnight in the fridge.

Give it a good heat through on the hob. This simple tomato sauce recipe is amazing after thawing.

Variations

Fancy a bit of a change? Easy peasy. For a vegan version, just double check your sugar is suitable. And that's it!.

Want to use seasonal ingredients? In the summer, when tomatoes are at their peak, using fresh is a must. I swear it’s authentic Italian tomato sauce if you do.

In the winter, canned tomatoes work a treat. You can also make it the marinara sauce recipe homemade that you've always wanted.

Nutrition Basics

Alright, let's talk health. This tomato sauce from scratch recipe is packed with good stuff. Tomatoes are full of Vitamin C and antioxidants.

This step-by-step tomato sauce recipe has roughly 120 calories per serving. It is perfect with 3g of protein and 3g of fibre.

Perfect for the whole family.

So there you have it. My homemade pasta sauce recipe . Don't be scared to experiment. Get creative, and most importantly, have fun. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh or canned tomatoes for this homemade tomato sauce recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh, ripe tomatoes, especially Roma or San Marzano, will give you the sweetest, most vibrant flavor when they're in season. However, good quality canned whole peeled tomatoes are a perfectly acceptable and convenient alternative, especially during the off-season.

Just crush them up a bit before adding them to the pot.

How do I store leftover homemade tomato sauce?

Let your homemade tomato sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion it into freezer safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

It's a great way to have a taste of summer on hand, even when it's bucketing down outside!

My homemade tomato sauce tastes too acidic! How can I fix it?

Tomato acidity can vary depending on the variety and ripeness. A pinch (or more!) of sugar is the classic way to balance the acidity in your homemade tomato sauce. You can also try adding a knob of butter or a splash of cream (or even some coconut cream for a vegan option) which will create a richer flavour and help to neutralise the acidic flavour profile.

Can I add meat to this homemade tomato sauce?

You certainly can! Adding meat will transform this basic sauce into a richer, heartier ragu. Brown some minced beef, pork, or Italian sausage in the pot before you sauté the onions and garlic. Then, proceed with the recipe as written.

Simmering the meat in the sauce will infuse it with incredible flavour, just like Nonna used to make!

Is this homemade tomato sauce recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just make sure any sugar you use is vegan friendly (some refined sugars are processed using animal bone char). You can easily adapt the recipe with vegan friendly substitutions. For the parmesan rind (if using), omit it entirely or use vegan parmesan instead.

How can I make this homemade tomato sauce thicker?

Simmering the sauce for a longer period, uncovered, will allow more liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavours and thickening the sauce. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken it up quickly.

Add slowly until desired consistency is achieved!