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Deep-Flavored Slow Simmered Tomato Sauce

This tomato sauce is made by slow simmering ripe tomatoes to develop sweetness and a smoky undertone, enhanced by a splash of aged balsamic vinegar. The process yields a thick, richly textured sauce with a deep color and layered flavor, ideal for pairing with pasta or as a base for other dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar
  • pinch crushed red pepper flakes optional, for some heat

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
    2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  2. Add the chopped ripe tomatoes to the pan and stir to coat them in the garlic-infused oil. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
    2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the tomatoes will soften and release their juices, gradually thickening the sauce over about 40 minutes.
  4. About 10 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat, and season with sea salt to taste.
    2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  5. Once the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened to a rich consistency, stir in the tablespoon of aged balsamic vinegar. This adds a layer of deep sweetness and complexity to the flavor.
    2 pounds ripe tomatoes
  6. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reach a glossy, slightly thickened texture.
  7. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or vinegar if needed. It should be fragrant, with a deep color and a smooth, slightly chunky texture.
  8. Remove the sauce from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect poured over freshly cooked pasta or as a base for other dishes.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, let the sauce simmer for a longer period or blend for a smoother texture if desired.