Bowl & Basket
Bowl & Basket Tomato Sauce
What it is
This is a smooth, cooked tomato product. It is made from ripe tomatoes that have been processed to remove skins and seeds. The sauce is seasoned lightly, providing a foundational tomato flavor for many dishes. It is ready to use as is or as a base for more complex sauces. Its consistency is thicker than tomato juice but thinner than paste.
How people cook with it
Tomato sauce is a versatile ingredient in many cuisines. It forms the backbone of countless savory dishes.
- Sauce for pasta
- Base for pizza
- Ingredient in stews
- Sauce for meatballs
Open the can or jar and pour the sauce into your cooking pot. It can be heated gently on the stovetop before adding other ingredients. For richer flavor, you can simmer it with aromatics like garlic and onions, or add herbs and spices. It blends well into casseroles, soups, and chili. It is also excellent as a dipping sauce when warmed.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes, this sauce is more refined and uniform in texture. It is less concentrated than tomato paste, offering a lighter tomato taste. It is also thinner than tomato puree, making it ideal for coating rather than thickening.
Who it is for
Home cooks preparing weeknight meals or elaborate weekend dinners often reach for tomato sauce.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused sauce to a clean, airtight container. Refrigerate the container. It should be used within a few days for best quality. Do not store opened sauce in the original can.