Stop buying these at the store. 6 popular tomato products to make at home instead
Morgan Reed
Contributing Writer
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In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards homemade culinary creations, and for good reason. Making tomato-based products at home not only allows you to control the quality of ingredients but also enhances flavor and nutritional value. Store-bought versions often contain preservatives, added sugars, and sodium, which can be detrimental to health. By crafting these products yourself, you can ensure that only fresh, wholesome ingredients are used. Additionally, homemade options are often more cost-effective in the long run and can be tailored to suit personal taste preferences, making them a rewarding endeavor for any home cook.
1. Homemade Pizza Sauce: A Fresh and Flavorful Alternative
Pizza sauce is a staple in many households, but store-bought versions can be laden with unnecessary additives. Making your own pizza sauce at home is surprisingly simple and allows you to create a sauce that bursts with fresh tomato flavor.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 ripe Roma tomatoes (or one 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add tomatoes (if using fresh, blanch, peel, and chop them first).
Stir in oregano, basil, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Blend with an immersion blender (or regular blender) if a smooth sauce is desired.
Let cool slightly before spreading on pizza dough.
2. Crafting Your Own Marinara Sauce: Simple and Delicious
Marinara sauce is a versatile component in many Italian dishes, from pasta to lasagna. By making it at home, you can achieve a depth of flavor that store-bought versions often lack.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
½ cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
Pour in red wine and let it reduce by half (about 3 minutes).
Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Use immediately or cool and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
3. DIY Tomato Ketchup: A Healthier and Tastier Option
Ketchup is a beloved condiment, but its commercial versions are often high in sugar and corn syrup. Making ketchup at home allows you to create a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
2 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp ground cloves
⅛ tsp ground allspice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan.
Simmer uncovered over medium heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend until smooth.
Pass through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother texture (optional).
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
4. Creating Tomato Paste from Scratch: Rich and Versatile
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes used to enhance the flavor of many dishes. Making it at home is a great way to utilize an abundance of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
5 lbs Roma tomatoes, halved
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for richness)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Place halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Roast for 2–3 hours until shriveled and most moisture has evaporated.
Let cool slightly, then press through a food mill or sieve to remove skins and seeds.
Transfer the pulp to a saucepan and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to a thick paste (another 30–45 minutes).
Let cool and store in jars or freeze in small portions.
5. Preparing Fresh Salsa: A Zesty and Refreshing Choice
Fresh salsa is a vibrant addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavor that store-bought versions can’t match.
Ingredients:
4 ripe tomatoes, diced
½ red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
Instructions:
