Simple Rustic Tomato Sauce

Directions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a heavy-based medium pot.
  2. 2Add onion and cook over medium heat, stirring often until translucent (approx 10 minutes).
  3. 3Add the garlic and continue to cook for a further 5 minutes, continuing to stir often.
  4. 4Add tomatoes and bring to the boil.
  5. 5Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture is thick.
  6. 6Stir in the basil.
  7. 7Cook, stirring occasionally, for a further 10 minutes.
  8. 8Season well with sea salt and black pepper.
  9. 9Add sugar.
  10. 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.