Prep
30 min
Cook
1 hr 10 min
Total
1 hr 40 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Make a small x cut on the bottom of each tomato.

  2. Fill a large mixing bowl with ice water.

  3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

  4. Place the tomatoes in the boiling water and let them cook until the skins start to curl, which should take around 30 seconds.

  5. Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and immediately place them in the bowl of ice water. Let them sit in the water for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are cool enough to handle.

  6. Take the tomatoes out of the ice water and peel off the skins. Discard the skins.

  7. Transfer the peeled tomatoes to a blender and blend until they become a liquid.

  8. Pour the tomato mixture into a medium-sized saucepan.

  9. Add the onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.

  10. Simmer the sauce over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency. This should take about 60 to 90 minutes.

  11. Use an immersion blender to purée the sauce until it becomes smooth.

  12. You can use the sauce immediately, or if you prefer, you can store it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to develop.

  13. If desired, you can substitute 4 teaspoons of dried basil for the fresh basil.

About this recipe

Are you tired of store-bought pizza sauces that lack flavor and freshness? Look no further! In this article, I will guide you through the process of making your very own pizza sauce using fresh tomatoes. Say goodbye to bland and hello to delicious homemade pizza sauce!

Why make your own pizza sauce?

While it may be convenient to pick up a jar of pizza sauce from the grocery store, there's something special about making your own sauce from scratch. Not only do you have control over the ingredients, but you can also customize the flavors to suit your taste buds. Plus, using fresh tomatoes adds a burst of freshness that you won't find in store-bought options.

Gathering the ingredients

To make your homemade pizza sauce, you'll need a handful of simple ingredients. Fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper are the essentials. You can also add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the flavor. Don't forget a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes!

The process

Start by blanching the tomatoes in boiling water for a minute or two. This will help you easily remove the skins. Once peeled, chop the tomatoes into small pieces. In a saucepan, heat some olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the tomatoes, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you prefer. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.

Customize to your taste

One of the beauties of making your own pizza sauce is the ability to tailor it to your preferences. Like it spicy? Add some red pepper flakes. Want it sweeter? Increase the sugar. Experiment with different herbs and spices until you find the perfect combination that tickles your taste buds. Don't be afraid to get creative!

Storing and using your sauce

Once your sauce has cooled down, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it for longer, consider freezing it in small portions. This way, you'll always have a jar of homemade pizza sauce on hand whenever a pizza craving strikes!

Conclusion

Making your own pizza sauce with fresh tomatoes is a game-changer. Not only does it elevate the flavors of your homemade pizzas, but it also gives you the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. Say goodbye to bland store-bought options and hello to a burst of freshness in every bite!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Absolutely! Canned tomatoes work just as well and are a convenient alternative if fresh tomatoes are not readily available.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if you don't have fresh ones on hand. Just remember to use them in smaller quantities, as they are more potent than fresh herbs.

How long does the sauce need to simmer for?

It is recommended to let the sauce simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop. However, if you're short on time, even 30 minutes will suffice.

Can I make a large batch of sauce and freeze it?

Absolutely! Making a large batch of sauce and freezing it in smaller portions is a great way to have homemade pizza sauce readily available whenever you need it.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Of course! Feel free to add diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

Can I use this sauce for other dishes?

Definitely! This sauce is versatile and can be used for pasta dishes, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a base for other Italian recipes.

How long will the sauce stay fresh in the refrigerator?

The sauce will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container.

Can I adjust the amount of garlic in the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preferences. If you love garlic, add more. If you're not a fan, use less.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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