How to Create Homemade Tomato Sauce from Fresh Tomatoes- A Step-by-Step Guide

How do I make tomato sauce out of fresh tomatoes? If you find yourself with an abundance of fresh tomatoes from your garden or local market, turning them into a delicious homemade tomato sauce is a great way to preserve their flavor and use them up efficiently. Making tomato sauce from scratch is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the quality and ingredients, ensuring a rich, homemade taste that is far superior to store-bought varieties.

Here’s a simple recipe to guide you through the process of making tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes:

Ingredients:

– 6 pounds of ripe tomatoes (preferably a mix of red and yellow for a more vibrant color)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup of white wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly and removing the stems. If the tomatoes are large, cut them into halves or quarters to speed up the cooking process.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the tomatoes to the pot, along with the salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine the ingredients.
5. If you prefer a more robust flavor, add the white wine to the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
7. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to crush the tomatoes and create a smooth sauce. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can skip this step.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
9. Once you are satisfied with the taste and consistency, remove the pot from heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
10. Pour the sauce into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.

By following this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious homemade tomato sauce made from fresh tomatoes. Not only will it enhance the flavor of your pasta dishes, but it can also be used as a base for soups, stews, and other tomato-based recipes. Happy cooking!