How to Make French Sauce Tomat from Scratch
French Sauce Tomat, a classic tomato sauce, is a fundamental component of many French dishes and is cherished for its richness and depth of flavor. Making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the taste to your preference. Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare this delectable sauce.
Ingredients Needed
To create a flavorful Sauce Tomat, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 oz each) of whole peeled tomatoes, with juice
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Incorporate Tomatoes
Add the canned whole peeled tomatoes along with their juice. Break the tomatoes apart with a wooden spoon or fork to incorporate them into the sauce.
4. Season the Sauce
Stir in the sugar, salt, and pepper. Add the bay leaf for additional flavor. Mix well and allow everything to blend together.
5. Simmer the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring that the sauce does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
6. Final Touches
Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Discard the bay leaf. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade Sauce Tomat warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, meats, and vegetables, making it a perfect addition to many dishes.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover Sauce Tomat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze the sauce in portions for up to three months, ensuring you always have a delicious sauce on hand!
By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy the rich flavors of homemade French Sauce Tomat, bringing an authentic touch to your culinary creations.