How do you make marinara sauce from fresh tomatoes? If you love Italian cuisine, you’ll be delighted to know that creating this classic sauce is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. Made with fresh ingredients, marinara sauce brings out the rich flavors of tomatoes, creating a delicious foundation for pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.
Marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cooking, known for its simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from traditional Italian meals to fusion cuisine. The key to making a great marinara sauce lies in using fresh, ripe tomatoes and the right balance of ingredients. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making marinara sauce from fresh tomatoes, ensuring that you achieve a flavorful and authentic result every time.
Ingredients:
To make marinara sauce from fresh tomatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 8-10 ripe tomatoes (preferably San Marzano or plum tomatoes)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Start by peeling and chopping the tomatoes. You can use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin or blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for a few seconds before peeling them. Chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot, along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. After 30 minutes, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
7. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can leave it chunky for a more rustic texture.
8. Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from heat. If desired, add fresh basil leaves for garnish.
9. Let the sauce cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion:
Making marinara sauce from fresh tomatoes is a straightforward process that yields a delicious and authentic result. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a flavorful sauce that will elevate your Italian dishes. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, give this homemade marinara sauce a try and savor the taste of fresh, homemade Italian cuisine. Buon appetito!
