Are you looking for a versatile base for incredible Indian-inspired dishes? Look no further! This homemade tomato puree recipe is the secret weapon you need to elevate your cooking game. Forget store-bought versions – making your own is easier than you think, tastes infinitely better, and allows you complete control over the flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a quick and healthy way to add depth and vibrancy to your favorite curries, soups, and sauces. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee (clarified butter)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil or ghee in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and coriander seeds and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. This step releases their delicious oils, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic, and Ginger
Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic and ginger as this can make the puree bitter.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well, ensuring all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Simmer and Blend
Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmered, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until completely smooth. You might need to do this in batches depending on your blender's capacity.
Step 5: Strain (Optional)
For an exceptionally smooth puree, you can strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or skins. This step is optional but recommended for dishes where a completely smooth texture is desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Tomato Puree:
- Ripe Tomatoes are Key: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor and color.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a large quantity of tomatoes, it’s best to work in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Store Properly: Once cooled, store the puree in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Tomato Puree: Increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet and Tangy Tomato Puree: Add a tablespoon of sugar or jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) and a squeeze of lime juice for a balanced flavor.
- Herby Tomato Puree: Stir in a handful of fresh cilantro or mint leaves during the simmering process for an added fresh herbal note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories Fat: Approximately 2-3 grams Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12 grams Protein: Approximately 1-2 grams
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This homemade tomato puree is a fantastic addition to your pantry. It's the perfect base for countless Indian dishes, offering a rich, flavorful foundation that elevates any recipe. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!