Tomatensaus Recipe: Traditional Italian Sauce made with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs

Tomatensaus

Tomatensaus Recipe: Traditional Italian Sauce made with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs
Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tomatensaus
Tomatensaus

Tomatensaus, or tomato sauce, is a classic and versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a staple in Italian cuisine and adds a burst of flavor to pasta, meat, and vegetable dishes.

History

The origins of tomatensaus can be traced back to Italy, where tomatoes were first introduced in the 16th century. Initially, tomatoes were considered poisonous and were only used as ornamental plants. However, over time, tomatoes gained popularity and became a key ingredient in Italian cooking. Tomatensaus was created as a way to preserve the flavor of tomatoes and enhance the taste of dishes.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Prepare this sauce following the same method as the botersaus. Once cooked, incorporate the pureed tomato, grated onion, pepper, and salt.
  2. Right before serving, sprinkle the finely chopped parsley over the sauce.

Variations

  • Add garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
  • Use fresh or canned tomatoes depending on availability.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Cook the sauce slowly to allow the flavors to develop.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Tomatensaus can be served over pasta, meat, or vegetables. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread or as a base for pizza.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the sauce slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the sauce frequently to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Olive oil can be used instead of butter.

- Cornstarch can be used instead of flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomatensaus can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve tomatensaus in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomatensaus pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables. It also complements dishes with cheese or seafood.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tomatensaus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of tomatensaus contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Tomatensaus is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Tomatensaus contains a moderate amount of fats, primarily from the butter used in the recipe.

Proteins

Tomatensaus is not a significant source of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomatensaus is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and lycopene.

Alergens

Tomatensaus may contain dairy (butter) and gluten (flour), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Tomatensaus is a flavorful sauce that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Tomatensaus is a versatile and flavorful sauce that can elevate a variety of dishes. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It all started on a warm summer day many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Italy. I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with my nonna, watching her cook up delicious meals with ease and grace.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she pulled out a jar of homemade tomatensaus from the pantry. The rich red color and the aroma of fresh tomatoes and herbs filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I asked her where she had learned to make this delicious sauce, and she smiled and told me the story of how she had acquired the recipe.

It turns out, my nonna had learned to make tomatensaus from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own twist to make it her own. My nonna had perfected the recipe over the years, and now it was my turn to learn the secret to making the perfect tomatensaus.

She showed me how to start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until they were soft and translucent. Then, she added a mixture of fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices, letting it simmer on the stove for hours until the flavors had melded together perfectly. She told me that the key to a good tomatensaus was patience and love, letting it cook slowly and stirring it with care.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, the tomatensaus was drizzled over a plate of piping hot spaghetti, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The first bite was like a burst of flavor in my mouth, the sweetness of the tomatoes mixing with the savory herbs and spices to create a symphony of tastes. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made tomatensaus countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added extra garlic for a more robust flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. I have even experimented with different types of tomatoes, using heirloom varieties for a more complex taste.

But no matter how I choose to make it, the memory of that first time learning to make tomatensaus with my nonna will always be a cherished one. It taught me not only how to cook a delicious sauce, but also the importance of passing down recipes and traditions through the generations. I hope to one day teach my own grandchildren how to make this beloved recipe, so that they too can experience the joy of cooking with love and care.

Categories

| Beef Stock And Broth Recipes | Dutch Sauces | Italian Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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