Introduction
Jamie Oliver’s easy tomato sauce is a culinary staple that brings warmth and flavor to a variety of dishes. This recipe is not only straightforward but also allows for customization, making it a versatile sauce for pasta, pizzas, and more. With fresh, juicy tomatoes at its core, this sauce is a celebration of simple ingredients that deliver delicious results.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 kg ripe tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 onion
– A handful of fresh basil
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
Prep Time
The preparation for this tomato sauce is quick and efficient, taking approximately 10 minutes to get everything ready.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time is around 30 minutes, making the total time to prepare this delightful sauce about 40 minutes. This recipe yields enough sauce to generously serve 4 to 6 people, perfect for a family meal or to make ahead for future use.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering your ingredients. You will need ripe tomatoes, sea salt, and olive oil. You may also choose to add other seasonings as desired.
Step 2: Peel the Tomatoes
Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water. Score the bottoms of the tomatoes with a small X. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to the ice water bath to cool. This will make it easier to peel the skins off.
Step 3: Chop the Tomatoes
Once the tomatoes are cool, peel the skins off and chop them into quarters. Set aside the chopped tomatoes in a bowl.
Step 4: Cook the Tomatoes
In a large pan, heat a generous splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan along with a pinch of sea salt. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and released their juices.
Step 5: Blend the Sauce
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a hand blender or transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend to your desired consistency. If using a blender, be cautious of hot splatters.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt or other herbs and spices according to your preference.
Step 7: Serve or Store
Your easy tomato sauce is now ready to serve with pasta, pizza, or any dish you like. If not using immediately, let the sauce cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for later use.
Notes
Note 1: Tomato Variety
Using ripe, high-quality tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your sauce. Varieties like San Marzano or Roma are ideal for sauce-making.
Note 2: Additional Flavors
Feel free to add garlic, onions, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano during the cooking process for extra depth of flavor.
Note 3: Consistency Preference
For a chunkier sauce, simply stir the tomatoes without blending. Adjust the cooking time for a thicker sauce by allowing more moisture to evaporate.
Note 4: Storage Tips
When storing the sauce, make sure it cools completely before sealing. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for several months.
Cook techniques
Chopping tomatoes
Chop tomatoes into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and release their juices effectively.
Sautéing
Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil to build a flavor base for your sauce, ensuring they become soft and fragrant without browning.
Simmering
Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and enhance the overall taste.
Texture adjustment
Blend the sauce if you prefer a smoother consistency, or leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.
Seasoning
Adjust seasoning by tasting; add salt, pepper, or herbs gradually to avoid overpowering the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great alternative and can save time while still providing good flavor.
How long can I store the tomato sauce?
Homemade tomato sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for several months.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
Basil, oregano, and thyme are excellent herbs to complement tomato sauce.
Can I customize the sauce with vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini to enhance the sauce’s flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this tomato sauce recipe is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.
Conclusion
The easy tomato sauce is a versatile and foundational recipe that can elevate numerous dishes. Its simplicity allows for various personal twists, making it a staple in any kitchen. Whether used as a base for pasta, a topping for pizzas, or a sauce for meats and vegetables, this tomato sauce demonstrates how a few quality ingredients can create something truly delicious.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Tomato Basil Pasta
Combine the easy tomato sauce with cooked pasta and fresh basil for a quick and satisfying meal.
Pizza Margherita
Use the tomato sauce as the base for a classic Margherita pizza, topped with mozzarella and fresh basil.
Tomato Sauce and Meatballs
Pair the sauce with homemade or store-bought meatballs for a hearty dish that’s perfect for serving over spaghetti.
Shakshuka
Use the tomato sauce to create a flavorful shakshuka by poaching eggs directly in the sauce and serving with crusty bread.
Stuffed Peppers
Mix the tomato sauce with rice and spices to fill bell peppers, then bake until tender for a delicious and colorful meal.
Chickpea Curry
Enhance the tomato sauce with spices and chickpeas for a quick vegetarian curry served with rice or naan.