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Rich Homemade Tomato Sauce (Thick & Flavor-Packed)

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A rich, thick homemade tomato sauce simmered slowly to concentrate flavor, made with ripe tomatoes, aromatics, and herbs. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for many dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 kg ripe tomatoes, crushed (or canned whole tomatoes)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine.
  6. Add salt, pepper, sugar (if using), oregano, basil, bay leaf, and chili flakes.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  8. Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.
  9. Remove bay leaf and stir in fresh basil if using.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra-smooth sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
  • Sauce thickens more as it cools.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Add a splash of pasta water when tossing with pasta for better coating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/rich-homemade-tomato-sauce-thick-flavor-packed/