The Ultimate Pizza Sauce Recipe: From Jar to Jarringly Delicious
Making pizza at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, but let's be honest – the sauce can make or break it. A great pizza sauce isn't just a condiment; it's the foundation of a fantastic pizza. This recipe takes you beyond the jar, offering a homemade pizza sauce that's bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Get ready to elevate your pizza game!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 2 cups of pizza sauce, perfect for two large pizzas or several smaller ones. Adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 28 ounces (794g) canned crushed tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and low acidity.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A classic pizza sauce ingredient that provides a powerful aromatic punch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Essential for that authentic Italian pizza flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Add a touch of heat, adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for even beginner cooks.
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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. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the sauce. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, skip this step.
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Taste and adjust: Once the sauce has simmered, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, sugar, or herbs to suit your preferences.
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Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Tips for Pizza Sauce Perfection:
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh oregano and basil will elevate the flavor even further.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Try adding other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of fennel seeds.
- Make a big batch: Double or triple the recipe and freeze the extra sauce for future pizza nights.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste.
Serving Suggestions:
This pizza sauce is perfect for all types of pizzas, from classic margherita to your most creative combinations. Enjoy!
This recipe provides a foundation for creating your own signature pizza sauce. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to create a sauce that perfectly complements your pizza toppings and personal taste preferences. Happy cooking!
