Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a versatile and essential ingredient in countless dishes. This smooth, vibrant sauce is typically made from cooked and pureed tomatoes, often seasoned with herbs like basil and oregano, and spices such as garlic and onion powder. Its flavor profile is characterized by a balance of sweetness and acidity, providing a rich, savory base for various culinary creations. High-quality tomato sauce should have a thick, yet pourable consistency, and a deep red color indicating ripeness and concentration of flavor. Whether you're looking for a base for homemade pasta sauce, a pizza topping, or a flavorful addition to stews and casseroles, good tomato sauce is a pantry staple.
Common Uses
- Making a simple pasta sauce: Combine tomato sauce with sautéed garlic, olive oil, and your favorite herbs (basil, oregano) for a quick and delicious pasta sauce. Simmer until the flavors meld together.
- As a pizza base: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce evenly over pizza dough, then add cheese and your choice of toppings to create a classic pizza.
- In stews and casseroles: Add tomato sauce to stews, casseroles, and braised dishes for added depth of flavor and moisture. It complements meats, vegetables, and grains beautifully.
- For simmering meatballs or sausages: Gently simmer meatballs or Italian sausages in tomato sauce until cooked through, resulting in tender and flavorful protein. Serve over pasta or polenta.
- Preparing Shakshuka: Use tomato sauce as a base for shakshuka, a Middle Eastern and North African dish where eggs are poached in a spiced tomato sauce, often with peppers and onions.
- As a base for soups: Tomato sauce can form the foundation for tomato-based soups. Add broth, vegetables, and seasonings to create a hearty and comforting soup.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
21.0kcal (1.05%)
Protein
1.2g (2.32%)
Carbs
4.7g (1.7%)
Sugars
3.0g (6.06%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
21.0kcal (1.05%)
Protein
1.2g (2.32%)
Carbs
4.7g (1.7%)
Sugars
3.0g (6.06%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may help protect against certain cancers.
- Good source of Vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
- Provides Vitamin A, essential for vision and cell growth.
- Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to many meals.
- May improve heart health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Unopened tomato sauce can be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry at room temperature until its expiration date. Once opened, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. It should be used within 5-7 days. For longer storage, tomato sauce can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Leave some headspace in the container as the sauce will expand when frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
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