Description
This rich and flavorful homemade tomato sauce combines the sweetness of slow-simmered whole peeled tomatoes with the aromatic essence of garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes. Enhanced by the depth of concentrated tomato paste and olive oil, this versatile sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Sauce
- 10 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup double-concentrated tomato paste (from a tube)
- 2 sprigs fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Pour the canned whole peeled tomatoes and their juices into a large, deep bowl. Using your hands, squeeze and crush the tomatoes until a chunky sauce forms with pieces no bigger than 1 1/2 inches.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat 1/2 cup olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat until shimmering. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 1 minute to infuse the oil.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: If using, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the garlic turns golden-brown and fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Cook Tomato Paste: Stir in 1/4 cup double-concentrated tomato paste. Cook while stirring often until the paste darkens in color and emits a fragrant aroma, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Basil: Add the crushed tomatoes, 2 fresh basil sprigs, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to lose their acidity and the flavors to meld perfectly.
- Season and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt as needed. Remove basil sprigs before serving. Use the sauce immediately or store for later use.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender after simmering.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
