Olivia Carter
As a tomato lover and avid home cook, I am always on the lookout for delicious and practical ways to use up the abundant harvest from my garden. One of my favourite go-to recipes is a homemade freezer tomato sauce. This versatile sauce is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to preserve the fresh flavours of ripe tomatoes for later use.
What makes this freezer tomato sauce recipe so special is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a rich and flavourful sauce that can be used as a base for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a classic spaghetti bolognese, a hearty tomato soup, or a delicious pasta sauce, this freezer tomato sauce will elevate your cooking to a whole new level.
The secret to this recipe lies in the quality of the tomatoes. Ripe, juicy tomatoes bursting with flavour are essential for a truly exceptional sauce. I like to use a combination of heirloom and roma tomatoes, but any variety will work. To enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, I also add a touch of honey and brown sugar. This gentle sweetness balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and adds depth to the sauce.
The beauty of this freezer tomato sauce is that it can be made in large batches and stored in the freezer for months. Simply divide the sauce into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers or ziplock bags. When you’re ready to use the sauce, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or heat it directly from frozen on the stovetop. It’s a convenient way to enjoy the taste of summer tomatoes all year round!
My Favourite Freezer Tomato Sauce Recipe
As someone who loves to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I have tried many tomato sauce recipes over the years. After much trial and error, I have finally found the best freezer tomato sauce recipe that I keep coming back to whenever I have an abundance of tomatoes from my garden or find a great deal on fresh tomatoes at the farmers market.
This recipe is simple yet packed with flavour. The secret lies in using fresh, ripe tomatoes and slow-cooking them with a blend of herbs and spices. The result is a rich and vibrant tomato sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and pizza to soups and stews.
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds of fresh tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
Instructions:
- Boil a large pot of water and prepare an ice bath.
- Cut a small “x” on the bottom of each tomato and blanch them in the boiling water for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the blanched tomatoes to the ice bath to cool. Once cool, remove the skins and chop the tomatoes into small pieces.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
- Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
This freezer tomato sauce recipe is a game-changer for me. I love the fact that I can make a large batch and store it in the freezer for future use. It saves me time and ensures that I always have a delicious homemade tomato sauce on hand whenever I need it. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become your go-to tomato sauce recipe as well!
Choosing the Perfect Tomatoes
When it comes to making the best tomato sauce, choosing the right tomatoes is essential. As someone who has experimented with various tomato varieties for my freezer tomato sauce recipe, I have learned a few things about what makes a tomato perfect for sauce making.
1. Flavor: The first thing I look for in a tomato is its flavor. A great sauce starts with great-tasting tomatoes. I prefer tomatoes that have a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor, as they add depth and complexity to the sauce. Whether it’s heirloom tomatoes, San Marzano, or Roma tomatoes, finding varieties that are known for their exceptional taste is crucial.
2. Texture: The texture of the tomatoes also plays a significant role in the final result of the sauce. I like to use tomatoes that are meaty and firm, as they break down less during the cooking process, resulting in a thicker sauce. Tomatoes with less water content are ideal for sauce making, as they concentrate the flavor and prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
When selecting tomatoes for my sauce, I like to choose ones that are fully ripe but still firm. Overripe tomatoes tend to be mushy and can make the sauce too watery. It’s also important to inspect the tomatoes for any bruises or signs of rotting, as these can affect the flavor and quality of the sauce.
3. Variety: Lastly, experimenting with different tomato varieties can add an interesting twist to your sauce. In addition to the traditional sauce tomatoes, like Roma and San Marzano, I like to try heirloom tomatoes or even cherry tomatoes for a unique flavor profile. Mixing different tomato varieties can create a well-rounded sauce with a mix of sweet, tart, and savory notes.
Overall, selecting the perfect tomatoes for your freezer tomato sauce recipe requires considering factors such as flavor, texture, ripeness, and variety. With the right tomatoes, you can create a sauce that will elevate any dish and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Preparing the Tomatoes for Freezing
When it comes to preserving the fresh flavors of tomatoes, freezing them is a great option. Whether you have an abundance of ripe tomatoes from your garden or you simply want to stock up for the winter months, preparing the tomatoes for freezing is a crucial step to ensure the best results.
First and foremost, it is important to select ripe and high-quality tomatoes for freezing. Look for tomatoes that are firm, evenly colored, and free from any bruises or blemishes. The variety of tomatoes used can vary depending on personal preference and the intended use of the sauce. Roma tomatoes are often a popular choice due to their rich flavor and meaty texture.
To begin preparing the tomatoes for freezing, start by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Remove any stems or leaves attached to the tomatoes. Then, use a sharp knife to cut out the core from the top of each tomato. This will ensure that the tomatoes freeze evenly and prevent any bitter taste from the core.
Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully lower the tomatoes into the boiling water and blanch them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Blanching helps to loosen the skin and makes it easier to remove. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the blanched tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to cool down quickly.
Once the tomatoes have cooled down, the skin can be easily peeled off. Gently make a small incision at the base of each tomato and peel away the skin. If the skin doesn’t come off easily, you can blanch the tomatoes again for a few more seconds. Peel all the tomatoes and discard the skins.
Now that the tomatoes are peeled, they can be chopped or blended according to your preference. Some people prefer to chop the tomatoes into small pieces, while others prefer a smoother texture by blending them. Once chopped or blended, transfer the tomatoes and any accumulated juices into a suitable container or freezer bag.
It is essential to label the containers or freezer bags with the current date to keep track of the tomatoes’ freshness. Squeeze out any excess air from the bags before sealing them to prevent freezer burn. Frozen tomato sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months, providing you with a delicious and versatile ingredient throughout the year.
Making the Tomato Sauce
Making tomato sauce from scratch is a great way to preserve the flavors of fresh tomatoes and have a delicious base for a variety of dishes throughout the year. Here’s my favorite recipe for freezer tomato sauce:
Gather fresh tomatoes: Start by selecting ripe and flavorful tomatoes. Look for varieties such as Roma or San Marzano that have a dense and meaty texture, which are perfect for making sauce.
Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes. If desired, you can also blanch the tomatoes by briefly boiling them and then placing them in ice water to easily remove the skins. However, this step is optional as the skins will break down during cooking.
Cook the tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into quarters and remove the seeds. In a large pot, heat some olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until they are softened and fragrant. Add the tomatoes, along with any desired herbs such as basil or oregano. Simmer the sauce for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to break down into a thick and rich sauce.
Cool and package the sauce: Once the sauce has simmered for the desired time, let it cool completely. It’s important to let it cool before packaging it for freezing to avoid any condensation forming, which can lead to freezer burn. Once cooled, portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label them with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.
Additional tips: To add more depth of flavor to your tomato sauce, you can also roast the tomatoes in the oven before simmering them on the stovetop. This will intensify their sweetness and create a caramelized flavor. Additionally, you can customize the sauce by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and complexity. Enjoy your homemade tomato sauce throughout the year in pasta dishes, soups, stews, and more!
Freezing and Storing the Sauce
After making a delicious batch of tomato sauce, it’s important to properly store and freeze it to maximize its shelf life and preserve its flavor. Here are some tips on how to freeze and store your homemade tomato sauce.
Selecting the right containers: When freezing tomato sauce, it’s best to use freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Ensure that the containers are airtight and leakproof to prevent freezer burn and ice crystals from forming. Consider using smaller-sized containers or dividing the sauce into portions that are suitable for your future meals.
Cooling down the sauce: Before freezing, allow the tomato sauce to cool completely at room temperature. Placing hot sauce directly in the freezer can cause the temperature to rise and affect the quality of the other items in your freezer. It’s also important to leave some headspace in the containers or bags as the sauce will expand as it freezes.
Labeling and dating: Don’t forget to label and date the containers or bags before placing them in the freezer. This will help you keep track of how long the sauce has been frozen and ensure that you use it within a reasonable time frame. Tomato sauce can safely be stored in the freezer for up to 3 to 4 months, but its quality will start to diminish over time.
Thawing and using the sauce: To thaw the frozen tomato sauce, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes to ensure even thawing. Once thawed, the sauce can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Use the thawed sauce within 3 to 4 days and discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Additional tips:
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the thawed sauce with an immersion blender or in a regular blender before reheating it.
- Consider freezing the tomato sauce in convenient portions, such as ice cube trays, for easy use in recipes that require small amounts of sauce.
- If you’re short on freezer space, you can freeze the tomato sauce in a flat, resealable bag and stack them horizontally in the freezer to save space.
- Remember to always practice good food safety and hygiene when handling and storing your homemade tomato sauce.
Tips for Using the Freezer Tomato Sauce
Once you have made and frozen your tomato sauce, there are several ways you can use it in your meals. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your freezer tomato sauce:
- Thawing: Before using the sauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This will ensure that the sauce is fully defrosted and ready to use.
- Serving: Use the freezer tomato sauce as a base for pasta dishes, such as spaghetti or lasagna. Simply heat the thawed sauce in a pan, add your favorite ingredients, and simmer until heated through.
- Seasoning: Taste the thawed sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more herbs, spices, or salt to enhance the flavors.
- Extending: If you have a small amount of tomato sauce left, you can use it to enhance other dishes. Add it to soups, stews, or casseroles to give them a delicious tomato flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftover thawed sauce that you don’t use immediately, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container.
With these tips, you can make the most out of your freezer tomato sauce and enjoy its delicious taste in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a simple pasta dinner or adding some flavor to another recipe, this homemade sauce will surely elevate your meals.
10 Best freezer tomato sauce recipe
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FAQ:
What is the best freezer tomato sauce recipe?
One popular recipe for freezer tomato sauce is to start by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil until they are soft. Then, add peeled and chopped tomatoes, along with tomato paste, sugar, salt, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and store in the freezer until ready to use.
How long can freezer tomato sauce be stored?
Freezer tomato sauce can typically be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer. It’s best to label and date the containers or bags so you can keep track of how long they have been frozen. Make sure to use proper freezer storage techniques, such as removing excess air from containers or using airtight freezer bags, to help maintain the quality of the sauce during storage.
Can you freeze tomato sauce with meat in it?
Yes, tomato sauce with meat can be frozen. It’s important to fully cook the meat before adding it to the sauce and allow the sauce to cool completely before freezing. When reheating the sauce, make sure it reaches a safe internal temperature to ensure the meat is fully cooked. It’s also a good idea to portion the sauce into smaller containers or bags for easier thawing and reheating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this best freezer tomato sauce recipe is a game-changer when it comes to making delicious tomato sauce that can be stored for later use. The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices creates a rich and flavorful sauce that can elevate any pasta dish. The best part is that it can be easily prepared in bulk and stored in the freezer, making it convenient for quick and easy weeknight meals. Whether you need a small portion for a simple pasta dish or a larger amount for a family gathering, this recipe has got you covered. Say goodbye to store-bought tomato sauces and hello to homemade goodness that can be enjoyed all year round!
