Cooking tip: Delicious, authentic tomato sauce, preservative-free, and safe for your health.
Cooking tip: Making tomato sauce at home not only preserves the natural flavor but is also safe and free of preservatives. The recipe is simple, anyone can succeed.
The secret to choosing ingredients
To make delicious tomato sauce, fresh ingredients are key. Choose tomatoes that are evenly ripe, juicy, slightly soft but not mushy. Naturally grown, in-season tomatoes tend to be sweeter and more aromatic than those grown in greenhouses. Besides tomatoes, you'll need rock sugar for a mild sweetness, lemon juice for natural preservation, and sterilized glass jars to store the finished product.
Quick and easy preparation tips
To peel the tomatoes easily, lightly score the skin, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then immediately immerse them in cold water. The skin will peel off very quickly. Cut the tomatoes in half, remove the seeds for a smoother sauce, then chop or puree them according to your preference.
Making tomato sauce – the most important step.
Place the pureed tomatoes in a stainless steel or thick-bottomed pot, bring to a boil, then skim off the foam to ensure a clear and smooth sauce. Reduce the heat and simmer for 40–60 minutes. During cooking, add rock sugar to taste and squeeze in a little lemon juice for added flavor and extended shelf life. Those who like spicy food can add some chopped chili peppers. The sauce is ready when it thickens and lightly coats the spoon.
Bottling and storage
Glass bottles need to be thoroughly sterilized in boiling water for 10–15 minutes. When the sauce is still hot (around 80°C), pour it immediately into the bottles, leaving about 1–2 cm of space from the rim. Tighten the caps, then invert the bottles to allow the heat to sterilize them further. Once cooled, store in a cool, dry place for 3–6 months or in the refrigerator for up to 1 year.
The finished product has a rich, authentic taste of home.
Homemade tomato sauce retains its vibrant red color, sweet and savory flavor, and natural aroma, without any additives. You can use it to cook noodles, sauce meat, make soup, or simply dip bread in it. Each spoonful of sauce evokes the taste of home-cooked meals and brings a feeling of safety and contentment.
