Craving that authentic New York pizza taste? Forget the jarred stuff! Making your own pizza sauce is easier than you think, and the flavor difference is incredible. This recipe delivers a vibrant, slightly sweet, and perfectly tangy sauce that will elevate your homemade pizzas to a whole new level. Get ready to enjoy the best pizza you've ever had, all thanks to this simple, delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or completely blend the sauce once it has finished simmering. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step entirely.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more sugar for sweetness, salt for savoriness, or red pepper flakes for heat. This is your sauce, so make it your own!
Step 5: Cool and Use
Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool completely before using it on your pizza. The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pizza Sauce:
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce heavily depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Look for brands known for their good taste.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to develop fully.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste your sauce frequently and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
- Fresh herbs are best: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use them instead of the dried herbs for a more intense flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Pizza Sauce: Add more red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Garlic Lover's Sauce: Add an extra clove or two of garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Herby Pizza Sauce: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-8g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This easy New York pizza sauce recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend pizza parties. It’s a delicious and healthy way to elevate your homemade pizzas, making them taste like they came straight from a New York pizzeria. Enjoy!