Revolutionize Your Pizza Nights: How to Make Tomato Sauce Without Tomato Paste

Tired of relying on tomato paste for your pizza sauce? Want a fresh, vibrant flavor that sings with summery goodness? Then ditch the paste and embrace the power of fresh tomatoes! This guide will walk you through the process of making a delicious pizza sauce without relying on that ubiquitous brick of concentrated tomato flavor.

The Power of Fresh Tomatoes

Using fresh tomatoes allows you to control the flavor and texture of your sauce. You can choose from a variety of varieties, each bringing its own unique character to the table.

• Roma tomatoes: These are the classic choice for sauce thanks to their low-water content and firm flesh, leading to a thicker sauce.
• San Marzano tomatoes: These Italian heirloom tomatoes are known for their sweetness and low acidity, resulting in a smooth, balanced sauce.
• Heirloom tomatoes: Experiment with different colors and flavors! Yellow, green, or striped tomatoes can add a vibrant touch to your sauce.

A Simple Recipe for Fresh Tomato Pizza Sauce

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sweat the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Simmer and Reduce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced.
4. Puree and Season: Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender and puree until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Tips for Making the Best Tomato Sauce

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can lead to a bitter sauce. Keep an eye on your sauce and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs are always preferable to dried, but if you’re using dried, add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming bitter.
• Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a chunkier sauce, simply reduce the simmering time or leave some of the tomatoes unpureed.
• Experiment with Flavor: Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity, a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangy kick, or a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Beyond the Basics: Variations on the Classic

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, get creative! Here are a few ways to add your own signature twist:

• Roasted Tomato Sauce: Roast the tomatoes before simmering them for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a generous pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for a fiery kick.
• Herbed Tomato Sauce: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for a rich and decadent sauce.

Freezing Your Homemade Sauce

Making a large batch of sauce? No problem! You can easily freeze your homemade pizza sauce for later use.

1. Cool Completely: Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
2. Leave Space: Leave about an inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.
3. Freeze Flat: Freeze the sauce in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for easier thawing.
4. Thaw and Enjoy: Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave before using.

The Final Slice: Why Ditching the Paste Makes a Difference

Making your own tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes is a game-changer for pizza lovers. You’ll taste the difference in each bite! The vibrant, fresh flavors, the satisfyingly thick texture, and the ability to customize your sauce to your liking – all these factors elevate your pizza experience to a whole new level.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. Choose crushed or diced tomatoes for the best results. Just be sure to drain the liquid from the can before adding the tomatoes to the sauce.

Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

A: You can use a regular blender or food processor to puree the sauce. Just be careful not to overfill the blender or processor, and use a spatula to push the sauce down the sides as needed.

Q: How long will the sauce last in the refrigerator?

A: Homemade tomato sauce will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I add cheese to the sauce?

A: While some people like to add cheese to their pizza sauce, it’s not traditionally done. Adding cheese can make the sauce too thick and heavy. Instead, you can always sprinkle cheese directly on top of the pizza before baking.

Q: What kind of pizza crust should I use with homemade sauce?

A: Homemade sauce pairs well with any type of pizza crust, from thin and crispy to thick and chewy. Experiment with different crusts to find your favorite combination.