HOMEMADE TOMATO SAUCE: NONNA’S FOOLPROOF RECIPE

If goodness and tradition had to choose a symbol, tomato sauce would undoubtedly be a strong contender.

This versatile preparation is at the heart of Italian cuisine, whether it is dressing pasta, enriching pizza or serving as a base for meat, fish or vegetable sauces.

Its simplicity evokes the warm scent of summer throughout the year, allowing this beloved fruit to be enjoyed even in the depths of winter.

Every Italian region and family has its own recipe, handed down from generation to generation, making tomato sauce a true embodiment of authenticity and togetherness.

Below is Nonna’s traditional recipe, perfect for preparing and preserving the essence of summer.

 

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Authenticity: Nonna’s recipe reflects generations of tradition, using fresh, wholesome ingredients to capture the pure flavor of tomatoes.
• Sustainability: This method ensures zero waste, allowing you to enjoy ripe tomatoes year-round.
• Versatility: The sauce is a perfect base for countless dishes, from pasta to soups, and can be customized with your favorite herbs or spices.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients (Makes 10 x 500g Jars)

• 11 lbs ripe tomatoes (approximately 20 medium to large tomatoes)
• 3 ribs celery (about 1 cup, chopped)
• 3 carrots (about 1 cup, chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 medium onions (about 2 cups, chopped)
• 2 generous handfuls of fresh basil (about 1 cup, loosely packed)
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (or to taste)

 

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Prepare the Herbs

1. Wash and trim the celery, carrots, garlic, and onions.
2. Finely chop the herbs and sauté them in a large earthenware or copper pan with 4 generous tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

2. Prep the Tomatoes

1. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and cut them into pieces.
2. Add the tomatoes to the sautéed vegetables, stirring to combine.
3. Sprinkle with a handful of coarse salt.

3. Cook and Puree

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the tomatoes have softened (about 20 minutes).
2. Turn off the heat and puree the mixture using a vegetable mill or food processor.

4. Reduce the Sauce

1. Return the puree to the pan and season with:
   • A drizzle of olive oil
   • Fresh basil
   • Ground pepper
   • A pinch of salt
2. Bring to a boil again, then lower the heat and simmer until the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency.

5. Sterilize the Jars

1. Sterilize the jars by washing them thoroughly and boiling them in water.
2. Dry the jars completely before filling.

6. Store the Sauce

1. Pour the hot sauce into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
2. Tightly close the lids.
3. Place the jars in a large saucepan, cover completely with water, and bring to a boil.
4. Boil the jars for about 20 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the jars cool completely in the water.
5. Remove the jars, dry them, and store them in a cool, dark pantry.

 

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Nonna’s Tips for the Best Tomato Sauce

1. Choose Ripe Tomatoes: Use tomatoes that are soft, fragrant, and rich in flavor, like Roma or San Marzano varieties.
2. Use Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the sauce, so use the best you can find.
3. Cook Slowly: Simmering on low heat helps meld the flavors and achieve a rich consistency.
4. Seal Properly: Ensuring the jars are sterilized and sealed tightly will keep the sauce fresh for months.

With this recipe, you can bottle the essence of summer and enjoy authentic Italian tomato sauce anytime you want. Buon appetito! 🍅

 

 

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Per 1/2 Cup Serving)
Calories	60 kcal
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	0.5g
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	8g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	5g
Protein	1g
Vitamin A	25% of Daily Value
Vitamin C	30% of Daily Value
Calcium	2% of Daily Value
Iron	2% of Daily Value

Note: Values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.