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Homemade Slow-Simmered Tomato Sauce

This tomato sauce is made by gently cooking ripe tomatoes and garlic over low heat, allowing flavors to develop and deepen over several hours. The final texture is thick and velvety, with a rich, vibrant red color and fragrant aroma. It is perfect for pairing with pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: homemade
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes preferably organic
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • salt to taste salt
  • fresh basil leaves basil optional, chopped for finishing

Equipment

  • Large Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Begin by washing and roughly chopping the ripe tomatoes to release their juices as they cook.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until it shimmers and begins to smell fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the oil and cook gently, stirring often, until it becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chopped tomatoes along with their juices, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
  5. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 2 hours. The sauce will thicken and deepen in color.
  6. As the sauce cooks, you'll notice it bubbling softly, with the aroma filling the kitchen and the tomatoes breaking down into a smooth, velvety consistency.
  7. Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well melded, taste and adjust salt as needed. If desired, stir in chopped fresh basil for a bright, fragrant finish.
  8. Remove the sauce from heat, and let it sit for a few minutes to settle before serving.
  9. Serve the thick, aromatic tomato sauce over your favorite pasta or use as a base for other dishes, enjoying its rich, homemade depth of flavor.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, you can add a dash of red pepper flakes during cooking or a splash of red wine for depth. Make ahead and reheat gently for best results.