Mario batali tomato sauce stands out due to its simplicity, yet rich, layered flavor. The cooking experience is incredibly satisfying, starting with the fragrant aroma of garlic and onions sautéing in olive oil.
The addition of fresh thyme and grated carrot adds subtle sweetness and complexity, balancing the natural acidity of the tomatoes. As the sauce simmers, the flavors meld together, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture.
This Mario Batali Tomato Sauce serves as a versatile base, perfect for pasta dishes, pizzas, or even as a dipping sauce. Its balanced taste makes it ideal for a variety of foods, from classic spaghetti to hearty lasagna.
The simplicity and quality of ingredients elevate any dish, while the rich depth of flavor ensures it remains a delicious choice for countless recipes.
How To Prepare Mario Batali Tomato Sauce?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 50
Yield: Approximately 4 cups
Equipment Needed
- 3-quart saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Spanish onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- ½ medium carrot, finely shredded
- 2 (28-ounce) cans peeled whole tomatoes, crushed by hand with their juices
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. In a 3-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced garlic, cooking until they become soft and light golden brown, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
2. Stir in the fresh thyme and shredded carrot. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the carrot to soften and meld with the other flavors.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes along with their juices to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a consistency similar to hot cereal.
5. Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. Once done, remove from heat and serve immediately over your choice of pasta, pizza, or any dish that calls for a robust tomato sauce.
Is Mario Batali Tomato Sauce Healthy?
Mario Batali tomato sauce can be considered relatively healthy, as it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which promotes heart health and reduces inflammation. Olive oil provides healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.
However, the sauce can be high in sodium if too much salt is added, so it’s important to control the seasoning to keep it healthier.
Overall, Mario Batali Tomato Sauce a nutritious option when used in moderation and paired with a balanced meal.
Unique Tips AndTricks
1. Roast the Tomatoes First: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, try roasting them in the oven with a little olive oil and seasoning. This caramelizes the sugars, intensifying the flavor of your sauce.
2. Simmer with a Parmesan Rind: Toss a Parmesan rind into the sauce while it simmers. It adds a deep, savory umami flavor that makes the sauce richer.
3. Use a Potato Masher: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a potato masher to break up the tomatoes as they cook. This will give you a velvety texture without the need for blending.
4. Add a Dash of Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a beautiful depth and tang to the sauce, balancing out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
5. Finish with a Drizzle of Olive Oil: After the sauce is done, drizzle a little high-quality extra-virgin olive oil over the top before serving for an extra layer of richness.
Serving Ideas
➨ Tossed with your favorite pasta for a classic spaghetti marinara.
➨ Spread over pizza dough as a base sauce.
➨Served as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or mozzarella sticks.
➨Paired with grilled vegetables or meats for added flavor.
Proper Storage
Properly storing Mario Batali Tomato Sauce makes all the difference in preserving its flavor and texture. After making a batch, I always make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container.
I’ve found that it stays fresh in the fridge for about a week, but for longer storage, freezing works best. I like to freeze individual portions, so I can easily thaw just the amount I need.
When reheating, I always do it slowly on low heat to keep the sauce from separating or becoming too watery.
More Tomato Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
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Manischewitz Tomato Mushroom Sauce – Top All
Scandinavian Herring In Tomato Sauce
Italian – Full Red Tomato Sauce
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they will need to be peeled, seeded, and chopped before adding to the sauce. You’ll also need to cook them longer to break down.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to six months.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Yes, you can easily add ground beef, pork, or sausage to the sauce for a meatier version, just brown the meat before adding the tomatoes.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while the sauce simmers to give it some heat.
Is this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, this tomato sauce is completely vegetarian and can be used in various plant-based dishes.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales easily, just be sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
How can I store leftover sauce?
Store the leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Mario Batali tomato sauce is a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor, making it an essential recipe in any kitchen.
The rich blend of fresh ingredients, including garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes, creates a sauce that is both versatile and delicious.
It serves as a fantastic base for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce, offering endless possibilities for different dishes.
The easy-to-follow preparation process ensures that anyone can make this flavorful sauce, and its ability to adapt to various flavors makes it a standout choice for countless meals. It’s a true culinary staple.
Mario Batali Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- 3-quart saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Spanish onion finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 tablespoon dried
- ½ medium carrot finely shredded
- 2 28-ounce cans peeled whole tomatoes, crushed by hand with their juices
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced garlic, cooking until they become soft and light golden brown, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh thyme and shredded carrot. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the carrot to soften and meld with the other flavors.
- Add the crushed tomatoes along with their juices to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a consistency similar to hot cereal.
- Taste the sauce and add salt as needed. Once done, remove from heat and serve immediately over your choice of pasta, pizza, or any dish that calls for a robust tomato sauce.