Tomato Paste Sauce - Homemade Marinara

🍅 **Tomato Paste Sauce 101** Mastering the art of tomato paste sauce can truly elevate your dishes. Here's a guide to help you make your own. 🔹 **Ingredients and Tools** - 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (or 2 cans of whole plum tomatoes) - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: sugar, basil leaves, red pepper flakes - Essential Tools: Large pot, Blender or food processor, Strainer or food mill, Wooden spoon, Storage containers 🍲 **Creating the Sauce** - Prep tomatoes: Blanch fresh ones or drain canned. Blend until smooth. - Cook the sauce: Sauté onion and garlic, add tomato paste, then the pureed tomatoes. Simmer for 45 min to 1 hour. - Season: Add salt, pepper, and optional sugar, herbs, and spices. 🥫 **Storing the Sauce** - Refrigeration: Cool completely, store in airtight containers for up to one week. - Freezing: Pour into freezer-safe containers, freeze for up to three months. 🍽 **Using the Sauce** - Pasta: Toss in tomato paste sauce, add meatballs or veggies. - Pizza: Use as a base, top with cheese and toppings. - Soups and Stews: Add a few spoonfuls for richness. - Baked Dishes: Use in lasagna or eggplant Parmesan. - Marinades: Mix with oil, vinegar, and spices for a flavorful marinade. Enjoy the process and experiment with flavors to make the sauce your own! 🍝 #TomatoPasteSauce #HomeCooking #DIYSauce #PastaSauce #PizzaSauce #CookingGuide #FoodPreparation #FoodStorage #KitchenEssentials.