homemade ketchup

How to Make Homemade Tomato Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making homemade tomato sauce is simple, versatile, and far tastier than store-bought versions. Here’s a basic recipe you can customize to your liking.

Start by gathering fresh, ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs), olive oil, 1 onion (finely chopped), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tsp sugar, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like basil or oregano. For a richer flavor, you can add a carrot or a bay leaf.

First, blanch the tomatoes: score an “X” on the bottom, plunge them into boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins will peel off easily. Chop the tomatoes and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent (5 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

For a smoother texture, blend with an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. Adjust seasoning to taste—add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Let it cool, then store in jars (refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer use). This sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for stews. Enjoy your homemade creation!