How do I make marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes? If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, then you know that the key to a delicious marinara sauce lies in the quality of the ingredients, especially the fresh tomatoes. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a homemade marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, ensuring that your dish is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
First and foremost, selecting the right tomatoes is crucial. For the best results, choose ripe, juicy tomatoes that are in season. These can be either heirloom varieties or standard tomatoes like Romas or cherry tomatoes. The freshness of the tomatoes will make a significant difference in the taste of your sauce.
Here’s a simple recipe for making marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will reduce and thicken as it cooks.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the marinara sauce warm over pasta, as a dipping sauce for bread, or as a topping for pizza.
When making marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes, it’s essential to let the flavors meld together. The longer the sauce cooks, the more robust the flavor will become. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender or a regular blender after cooking. However, many people enjoy the texture of the sauce with some chunks of tomatoes.
Remember that the quality of your marinara sauce will largely depend on the freshness of the tomatoes and the quality of the ingredients you use. Take the time to select the best ingredients, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, homemade marinara sauce that will impress your family and friends.