Grocery
Tomato Sauce
What it is
This is a smooth, cooked preparation of tomatoes. It is made from ripe tomatoes that have been processed and often seasoned. The texture is typically thick and uniform, with no large pieces of tomato visible. It serves as a fundamental base for many savory dishes, offering a concentrated tomato flavor. Its versatility makes it a pantry staple for home cooks.
How people cook with it
Tomato sauce is a foundational ingredient in countless recipes. It adds depth and a characteristic tang to many meals.
- Base for pasta sauces
- Ingredient in stews
- Flavoring for casseroles
- Component of chili
To use, simply add the desired amount to your cooking. It can be heated directly in a pan or pot as part of a sauce or simmered into dishes like soups and stews. It blends well with other ingredients, absorbing flavors and contributing its own bright, acidic notes. For a richer taste, it can be sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic before adding other components. It is also a key ingredient when making homemade pizza.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed tomatoes, which retain some texture, this sauce is finely pureed for a smooth consistency. It is also typically more concentrated than diced tomatoes, offering a more intense tomato flavor without the added liquid found in some canned tomato products.
Who it is for
Home cooks preparing a variety of Italian-inspired, Mexican-inspired, and other savory dishes will find this sauce useful.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused sauce to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within a few days. Freezing is also an option for longer storage, allowing you to portion it out for future use.