2Add onion and cook over medium heat, stirring often until translucent (approx 10 minutes).
3Add the garlic and continue to cook for a further 5 minutes, continuing to stir often.
4Add tomatoes and bring to the boil.
5Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture is thick.
6Stir in the basil.
7Cook, stirring occasionally, for a further 10 minutes.
8Season well with sea salt and black pepper.
9Add sugar.
10Cool and store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
Ingredients
0.25 cup olive oil
1 medium red onion finely diced
2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1 kg fresh tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
0.25 cup roughly chopped fresh basil leaves
Sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon raw unrefined sugar
Equipment
heavy-based medium potsmall sharp knifeslotted spoon
Tips
For skinless tomatoes, remove the core, make a cross-cross at the smooth end, plunge into boiling water for 20-30 seconds, then refresh in cold water and peel.
This base recipe can be customized by adding a finely chopped red chilli for heat, or herbs like thyme, oregano, or flat-leaf parsley.