How to Make Marinara with Fresh Tomatoes
Marinara sauce is a classic Italian tomato sauce that is both flavorful and versatile. It is a staple in many Italian dishes, from pasta to pizza. The best part about making marinara sauce at home is that you can control the quality and flavor of the ingredients. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to make marinara with fresh tomatoes, ensuring that you have a delicious and homemade sauce to enjoy.
Ingredients
To make marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes, you will need the following ingredients:
– 6-8 ripe tomatoes, preferably organic
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes and removing the stems. If the tomatoes are large, you can halve or quarter them. If they are small, leave them whole.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the tomatoes to the pot. If you’re using large tomatoes, you may want to crush them slightly with a potato masher to release their juices.
4. Season the Sauce: Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
7. Final Touches: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce. Alternatively, you can let it cool slightly and then puree it in a blender or food processor.
8. Serve: Once the sauce is ready, it can be served immediately over pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce for bread. It also makes a great base for soups and stews.
Conclusion
Making marinara sauce with fresh tomatoes is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the freshest flavors in your Italian dishes. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious marinara sauce that will impress your family and friends. Buon appetito!
