Best Spaghetti Sauce From Fresh Tomatoes
Spaghetti sauce is a staple in many households, but nothing beats the flavor of a homemade sauce made from fresh tomatoes. Making your own sauce can seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and techniques, it's easier than you think. In this article, we'll explore the best spaghetti sauce recipe from fresh tomatoes, step-by-step. So, grab your apron and let's get started!
Why Make Spaghetti Sauce from Fresh Tomatoes?
While canned tomatoes are convenient, they lack the fresh, bright flavor that comes from using fresh tomatoes. Plus, many canned tomatoes contain added preservatives and sodium. When making spaghetti sauce from fresh tomatoes, you have control over the ingredients and can customize the flavor to your liking.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the best spaghetti sauce from fresh tomatoes, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 10-12 fresh tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best spaghetti sauce from fresh tomatoes:
- Remove the stems from the tomatoes and cut them into quarters. Remove the seeds and pulp using your hands or a spoon. Discard the seeds and pulp and set the tomato flesh aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomato flesh to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
- Add the salt, sugar, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender to blend until smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve over spaghetti and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Spaghetti Sauce from Fresh Tomatoes
Follow these tips to make the best spaghetti sauce from fresh tomatoes:
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Remove the seeds and pulp from the tomatoes to prevent the sauce from being too watery.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Use an immersion blender or blender to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt, sugar, or spices.
Conclusion
Homemade spaghetti sauce from fresh tomatoes is a delicious and healthy alternative to canned sauce. By using fresh ingredients and following our step-by-step instructions, you can create a flavorful sauce that your whole family will love. So, next time you're in the mood for spaghetti, skip the canned sauce and make your own from scratch!