Easy Tomato Sauce Recipe – Chili Garlic & Herb Blend

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Tomato Sauce Recipe – Chili Garlic & Herb Blend

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you believe a good meal starts with a great sauce. And honestly, nothing beats a homemade tomato sauce. It’s so much fresher, tastier, and you know exactly what’s going into it. I’m sharing my go-to easy tomato sauce recipe – a chili garlic & herb blend that’s seriously versatile. It’s perfect for pasta, pizza, dipping, or just about anything your heart desires!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average tomato sauce. The chili flakes give it a lovely little kick, the garlic adds a beautiful aroma, and the herbs… well, they just make everything better, don’t they? It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes like you’ve been simmering it all day. Plus, it’s a fantastic base to customize – add more spice, different herbs, or even a splash of wine!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about 30ml)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic (around 15ml)
• 1.5 cups fresh tomato puree (approximately 360ml)
• 0.5 cup tomato paste (about 120ml)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon mixed herbs
• 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper powder (a pinch!)
• 0.5 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! A few little things can make a big difference.

Olive Oil Varieties & Their Impact: I usually use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but a light olive oil works just fine if that’s what you have. Don’t use anything too strongly flavored, as it can overpower the sauce.

The Importance of Fresh Tomato Puree: Seriously, fresh tomato puree is a game changer. It’s brighter and sweeter than canned. If you can, blend your own from ripe tomatoes – it’s worth the effort! (About 4-5 medium tomatoes will give you 1.5 cups).

Understanding Red Chili Flakes: Heat Levels & Regional Variations: Red chili flakes vary in heat. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste. Kashmiri chili flakes are milder and add a beautiful color, while others can pack a serious punch!

The Herb Blend: Italian vs. Indian Influences: I love using a pre-mixed Italian herb blend, but feel free to experiment! A pinch of oregano or even a tiny bit of garam masala can add a unique twist.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chopped garlic. Sauté for just a minute or two, until it becomes fragrant – you don’t want it to burn!
2. Now, sprinkle in the red chili flakes and sauté for about 30 seconds. This helps release their flavor and aroma.
3. Pour in the fresh tomato puree and let it cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken up a bit.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, salt, sugar, mixed herbs, dried basil, and pepper powder. Give it a good mix to combine everything.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the oil starts to separate from the sauce. This is a good sign – it means it’s ready!
6. Taste and adjust the consistency with a little water if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor and texture, remove from the heat and let it cool completely.
7. Finally, transfer the sauce to an airtight jar and refrigerate. It’s even better the next day!

Expert Tips

• Don’t rush the garlic! Gently sautéing it is key to unlocking its flavor.
• Simmering is your friend. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Variations

Vegan Tomato Sauce: This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your mixed herbs to ensure they don’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Considerations: This recipe is also gluten-free. However, if you’re serving it with pasta, be sure to choose a gluten-free variety.

Adjusting the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes. Or, for a real kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper! My friend, Priya, loves adding a finely chopped green chili for extra freshness.

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Pasta for Christmas, Pizza Sauce for New Year’s): This sauce is incredibly versatile. During Christmas, we often use it as a base for a creamy tomato pasta. For New Year’s, it’s the star of our homemade pizzas!

Serving Suggestions

Honestly, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:

• Toss it with your favorite pasta.
• Spread it on pizza dough.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks or garlic bread.
• Serve it with grilled vegetables or chicken.
• Add a dollop to scrambled eggs for a flavorful breakfast.

Storage Instructions

This tomato sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. I like to freeze it in small portions so I can easily grab what I need.

FAQs

How long does this tomato sauce last in the refrigerator?

Up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this homemade tomato sauce?

Absolutely! It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What’s the best type of tomato to use for fresh puree?

Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal, as they have a meaty texture and fewer seeds.

Can I use dried chili flakes instead of fresh chilies?

Yes, dried chili flakes work perfectly well! Adjust the amount to your spice preference.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Add a little more sugar, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Is it possible to make this sauce without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar. However, it does help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. You might want to add a pinch of baking soda instead.

Enjoy! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!