Homemade Spaghetti Sauce With Fresh San Marzano Tomatoes
Nothing beats a homemade spaghetti sauce made with fresh San Marzano tomatoes. The San Marzano tomato is a type of plum tomato that originated in Italy and is known for its sweet and rich flavor. Using fresh San Marzano tomatoes in your spaghetti sauce will take your dish to the next level and make it taste like it was made in a traditional Italian kitchen.
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
The first step in making homemade spaghetti sauce with fresh San Marzano tomatoes is choosing the right tomatoes. You want to make sure that the tomatoes are ripe and have a deep red color. Look for tomatoes that are firm to the touch and have a sweet fragrance. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, you can grow your own San Marzano tomatoes. If not, you can find them at your local farmers market or grocery store.
Preparing the Tomatoes
Once you have your San Marzano tomatoes, the next step is preparing them for your spaghetti sauce. Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under running water. Then, cut off the stem and remove any blemishes or bruises. You can leave the skin on or remove it, depending on your preference. If you choose to remove the skin, blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transfer them to a bowl of ice water. The skin should easily peel off.
Making the Sauce
Now that your San Marzano tomatoes are prepared, it's time to make the sauce. Start by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Add some olive oil and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until the garlic is fragrant, but not browned. Next, add your San Marzano tomatoes to the pan and stir to coat them in the garlic and oil. Use a wooden spoon to gently crush the tomatoes and release their juices.
Once the tomatoes have started to break down, add some salt and pepper to taste, and any other herbs or spices that you like. You could use basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary, depending on your preference. Let the sauce simmer for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer the sauce, the more the flavors will develop.
Serving the Sauce
Once your spaghetti sauce is ready, it's time to serve it. Cook your favorite pasta according to the instructions on the package and drain it. Then, add the pasta to the saucepan with the sauce and toss to coat. Serve the spaghetti with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Conclusion
Making homemade spaghetti sauce with fresh San Marzano tomatoes is a great way to elevate your spaghetti dish to the next level. By choosing the right tomatoes, preparing them properly, and simmering them with herbs and spices, you can create a delicious and authentic Italian sauce that your family and friends will love. So, next time you're in the mood for spaghetti, give this recipe a try!