Grocery
Simple Tomato Sauce
What it is
This is a smooth, cooked tomato product. It is made from ripe tomatoes that have been pureed and seasoned. It forms a convenient base for many dishes. The sauce is typically a deep red color and has a rich tomato flavor. It is a pantry staple for home cooks.
How people cook with it
Tomato sauce is a versatile ingredient. It can be used in both savory and sometimes even sweet applications.
- Sauce for pasta
- Base for pizza
- Ingredient in stews
- Flavoring for casseroles
You can use this tomato sauce directly from the container in many recipes. For a richer flavor, you can simmer it with aromatics like garlic and onions. It can be seasoned further with herbs such as basil or oregano. It is also a great starting point for homemade chili or marinara. Simply add your desired ingredients and let it cook down.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes, this sauce is more refined and smoother in texture. It is also typically seasoned, whereas plain crushed tomatoes often are not. This makes it ready to use without much additional preparation.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a convenient way to add tomato flavor to their meals will find this useful.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any unused tomato sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It is best to use it within a few days. You can also freeze the remaining sauce in portions for longer storage.