Can you make fresh tomato sauce in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Many people assume that slow cookers are only suitable for hearty stews and casseroles, but the truth is that they can also be used to create delicious and flavorful tomato sauces. This method is not only convenient but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a sauce that is sure to impress.
One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker to make tomato sauce is the ability to cook the ingredients at a low and slow temperature. This gentle cooking process helps to extract the maximum amount of flavor from the tomatoes, herbs, and spices, resulting in a rich and robust sauce. Additionally, slow cookers are perfect for those busy weekdays when you need a meal that can be prepared in advance and left to cook while you go about your day.
Here’s a simple recipe for making fresh tomato sauce in a slow cooker:
1.
Begin by peeling and chopping 8 ripe tomatoes. You can use fresh, canned, or a combination of both. Fresh tomatoes will add a fresh, vibrant flavor, while canned tomatoes provide a more consistent texture and sweetness.
2.
In a slow cooker, combine the chopped tomatoes with 1/2 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir well to combine.
3.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, so keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4.
After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the lid and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, if desired. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
5.
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, you can serve it over pasta, use it as a base for pizza, or add it to soups and stews. If you want to make a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce directly in the slow cooker.
Using a slow cooker to make fresh tomato sauce is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade flavor without the hassle of standing over a hot stove. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in a sauce that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, the next time you find yourself asking, “Can you make fresh tomato sauce in a slow cooker?” the answer is a resounding yes!
