Making your own tomato sauce at home is not just rewarding, it’s also a delightful way to capture the fresh flavors of tomatoes in a jar to enjoy all year round. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, layering it in lasagna, or using it as a base for stews, homemade tomato sauce beats store-bought every time for its taste and simplicity. Here’s how you can make a classic tomato sauce with just a few ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut the acidity)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs like basil or oregano (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, start by blanching them to remove the skins. Cut a small “x” on the bottom of each tomato and plunge them into boiling water for about a minute. Transfer them to ice water to cool, then peel off the skins. Roughly chop the tomatoes.

2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan, along with the sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.

4. Add Herbs and Adjust Seasonings: If you’re using fresh herbs, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed. For a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender or in a standard blender once it’s cooled a bit.

5. Store or Serve: Use the sauce immediately, or let it cool completely and store it in jars in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Tips for a Perfect Sauce:

• For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil before adding them to the sauce.

• Adding a piece of carrot or a celery stick during cooking can enhance the sauce’s flavor and natural sweetness.

Homemade tomato sauce is a versatile kitchen staple that’s both easy to make and delicious. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the taste of fresh tomatoes any time of the year, enhancing your meals with the satisfaction of having made it yourself. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!