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Heirloom Tomato Sauce

This tomato sauce is made by slow simmering ripe heirloom tomatoes with caramelized onions and fresh garlic, resulting in a velvety and vibrant sauce. The dish’s final appearance is a glossy, thickened sauce with visible flecks of herbs and a rich, inviting color, perfect for draping over pasta or vegetables.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs heirloom tomatoes preferably ripe and fragrant
  • 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon basil chopped, fresh

Equipment

  • Deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and begins to waft a gentle aroma.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent and start to caramelize around the edges—about 10 minutes—releasing a sweet, toasty smell.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn't burn—this should produce a warm, garlicky aroma with a slight sizzle.
  4. While the onions and garlic cook, roughly chop the heirloom tomatoes, then add them to the skillet.
  5. Stir the mixture well, breaking down the tomatoes slightly as they release their juices, creating a bright, chunky sauce base.
  6. Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the sauce, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop a deep, rich color, with the aroma becoming more intense and sweet.
  7. Once the sauce has reached a velvety consistency, stir in the chopped fresh basil for a fragrant, herbal note.
  8. Taste the sauce and adjust salt or pepper if needed, then remove from heat when it’s glossy and thickened—ready to serve or jar for later.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, simmer the sauce longer until it intensely reduces, or add a splash of red wine during cooking. Storing in sterilized jars allows you to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes year-round.