Description
A rich and flavorful homemade marinara sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and aromatic herbs, slow-simmered to perfection for an authentic Italian taste. Perfect as a base for pasta, pizza, or any Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Tomato Ingredients
- 1 can (28 oz / 800g) crushed tomatoes (San Marzano if possible)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Seasonings
- 1 tsp sugar (cuts acidity)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for finish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat to prepare for cooking the aromatics.
- Sauté the onion: Add the finely chopped small onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent, which helps build the flavor base.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen and concentrate the tomato flavor.
- Add crushed tomatoes: Pour in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the sauce: Add 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes if using, and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your preference.
- Finish with fresh basil: Stir in fresh basil leaves right at the end for a bright, herbaceous finish if available.
Notes
- Using San Marzano tomatoes enhances the sauce with a sweeter, less acidic flavor.
- The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes but can be omitted if you prefer a more tangy sauce.
- The chili flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference.
- Fresh basil added at the end provides a fresh aroma and flavor, but dried basil is used during cooking.
- Simmering time can be extended for a thicker and more concentrated sauce if desired.
