Choosing the Perfect Tomato Sauce for Your Basic Marinara
In the world of pasta, marinara sauce stands out as a simple yet essential ingredient that takes any dish to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will help you choose the perfect tomato sauce for your marinara recipe. Learn how to achieve the best results with fresh and canned options.
Ingredients for a Traditional Marinara Sauce
Making a basic marinara sauce is straightforward and requires a combination of fresh and canned ingredients. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and authentic taste.
Ingredients:
2 14.5 ounce cans stewed tomatoes 1 6 ounce can tomato paste 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 6 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup finely diced onion 1/4 cup white wineDirections:
Place the tomatoes, tomato paste, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a food processor and blend until smooth. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the blended tomato sauce and white wine. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 30 minutes.Canned vs. Fresh Tomato Sauce: What's the Best Choice?
The debate around canned versus fresh tomato sauce can be quite nuanced. Canned tomato sauce is often convenient and readily available, but the quality can vary greatly. Fresh tomato sauce, made with fresh tomatoes, can be more flavorful but requires more time and effort.
For a basic marinara sauce, you can effectively use sautéed onions and peppers, a grated carrot for sweetness, a 28 oz. tin of San Marzano tomatoes, and a small tin of tomato paste or passata. Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, flat-leafed parsley, and thyme, along with good black pepper and sea salt, will complete your sauce.
Canned tomatoes available in American supermarkets are often overly salted and poorly seasoned. Investing in store brands can yield better results. If you're uncertain, try different brands and choose the one that suits your taste and budget best. Everyone has unique preferences, so it's important to explore various options.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect tomato sauce for your marinara is a personal choice. Whether you prefer the convenience of canned sauce or the richness of fresh ingredients, the key is to ensure the quality and flavor meet your expectations. Experiment with different options and find the best sauce that works for you.