Homemade Tomato Sauce

While this may not be the exact method my Italian Nonna used for her slow-cooked tomato sauce, it's my simplified version—a quick and easy way to ensure my family enjoys wholesome meals even on our busiest days! If you're seeking the traditional Italian recipe, the one that simmers for hours and fills the kitchen with aromatic goodness, send us a message, and I'll gladly share that timeless treasure with you.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-30m minutes
Yields: Approximately 4 cups

Ingredients:

• 6-8 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium carrot, brushed, or scraped and diced
• 1 small beet, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add diced tomatoes, diced carrot, diced beet, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape while it cooks. Let it simmer uncovered until the beets and carrots are cooked and tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot. Alternatively, let it cool slightly and transfer to a blender. If you have time and want the sauce to be thicker, you can let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Freezing Instructions: If planning to freeze, let the sauce cool completely. Transfer to airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and contents. Store in the freezer for up to 3-6 months.

Indulge in the rich, natural sweetness that the inclusion of carrot and beet brings to this homemade tomato sauce. Elevate your dishes with the wholesome goodness of fresh ingredients, adding a burst of flavor to every meal. Whether drizzled over pasta, used as a pizza base, or incorporated into various recipes, this versatile sauce promises a delightful dining experience. Savor the authentic taste of homemade goodness with every spoonful, making your meals a celebration of flavor, health, and simplicity.

 The skin of a carrot is not only entirely edible but also rich in valuable nutrients. Peeling is generally unnecessary, allowing you to enjoy the full spectrum of health benefits that carrots offer. Consider removing the skin only if it's excessively dirty or bruised or if you're using non-organic carrots.