Molho de Tomate
Immerse yourself in the rich, aromatic flavors of **Molho de Tomate**, a traditional homemade tomato sauce that's as versatile as it is delicious. This recipe celebrates the natural sweetness of **ripe tomatoes**, slow-simmered to perfection with sautéed **onions**, **garlic**, and a harmonious blend of herbs like **fresh basil** and **oregano**. A touch of **carrot** and **celery** adds depth and richness, while a hint of sugar balances acidity for a perfectly rounded flavor. The addition of **tomato paste** enhances the sauce's intensity, and an optional final blend creates a silky texture—or enjoy it chunky for a more rustic appeal. With just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of simmering magic, this classic Italian-inspired tomato sauce is perfect for pairing with pasta, as a base for pizza, or as a complement to your favorite dishes. Elevate your cooking with this easy yet authentic **homemade tomato sauce recipe** today!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 small carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 10 basil leaves
- 0.5 teaspoon oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 0.5 cup water
Instructions
Begin by preparing the tomatoes: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Score a small 'X' on the bottom of each tomato with a sharp knife. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for about 30 seconds or until the skins start to peel away.
Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and immediately transfer them into a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel the skins off, core, and roughly chop the tomatoes.
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Dice the onion and add it to the pan, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Mince the garlic cloves and add to the onions, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Finely chop the carrot and celery. Add them to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are beginning to soften.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to enhance its flavors.
Add the chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Tear the basil leaves into small pieces and add them along with the oregano and bay leaf to the sauce.
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Use an immersion blender if a smoother sauce is desired, or leave it chunky for extra texture.
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then serve warm with your favorite pasta or dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
614 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.1 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2506 mg | 109% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 79.9 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.6 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 46.0 g | ||
| Protein | 15.8 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 260 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 3548 mg | 75% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
