Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) crushed tomatoes (or 8-10 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a handful of fresh basil leaves, torn)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Heat the Olive Oil:
   • In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
   • Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

1. Add Tomatoes:
   • If using canned tomatoes, pour in the crushed tomatoes. If using fresh tomatoes, add the peeled and chopped tomatoes.
   • Stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
2. Add Seasonings:
   • Stir in the tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook

1. Simmer the Sauce:
   • Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will develop.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

1. For a Smooth Sauce:
   • If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pan to blend it to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a regular blender and pulse until smooth.

Step 5: Serve

1. Finish and Garnish:
   • Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove from heat. If using fresh basil, stir it in at this point.
   • Serve the sauce over pasta, on pizza, or as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Tips:

• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Extra Flavor: For a deeper flavor, you can add a splash of red wine while the onions and garlic are cooking, letting it reduce before adding the tomatoes.
• Storage: This homemade tomato sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 3 months.

This Homemade Tomato Sauce is versatile, easy to make, and adds a fresh, rich flavor to your favorite dishes!