How to prepare easy and quick homemade tomato puree

Tomato puree is a fundamental ingredient in many recipes, from sauces to stews. Making it at home is not only easy but also a way to ensure that you are using fresh, quality tomatoes. Below, I will show you how to quickly and easily make your own tomato puree.

Necessary Ingredients

To make tomato puree, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 kg of fresh tomatoes (any variety will work, but Roma tomatoes are preferred)
• 1 tablespoon of salt (adjust to taste)
• A splash of olive oil (optional)
• A few basil leaves (optional, for added flavor)

Steps to Prepare Tomato Puree

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

The first step is to select fresh tomatoes and ensure they are in good condition. Next, wash them carefully under running water to remove any dirt or residue. It is advisable to choose ripe tomatoes, as this will enhance the flavor of the puree.

2. Blanch the Tomatoes

To make peeling easier, it is recommended to blanch the tomatoes. To do this, place a large pot of water on to boil. Once the water is boiling, introduce the tomatoes for about 30 seconds. This process will help the skin come off more easily. After blanching, remove the tomatoes from the pot and place them in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Peel and Chop

Once they are cool, proceed to peel the tomatoes. The skin should come off easily. Then, cut the tomatoes into quarters or smaller pieces, removing the seeds if you prefer. Although this last step is optional, doing so can result in a smoother and less watery puree.

4. Cook the Tomatoes

Place the chopped tomatoes in a pot over medium heat. If desired, add a splash of olive oil and the salt. Cook the tomatoes for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is key, as it will help reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.

5. Process the Puree

Once the tomatoes are cooked and softened, remove the pot from the heat. Transfer the tomatoes to a blender or food processor. You can process them until you reach your desired consistency: if you prefer a smoother puree, blend longer. If you like more texture, you can blend less.

6. Store the Tomato Puree

The tomato puree can be used immediately in your recipes or stored for future use. To preserve it, it is advisable to let it cool completely and then transfer it to jars or airtight containers. You can refrigerate it and use it within a week, or freeze it to extend its shelf life for up to six months.

Additional Tips

• If you want a more intense flavor, you can add fresh herbs like basil or oregano during cooking.
• Experiment with the level of salt and other spices to adjust the taste to your personal preference.

Making homemade tomato puree is a simple task that not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also allows you to have control over the ingredients. Feel free to incorporate this delicious puree into your recipes.

I invite you to keep reading more news and recipes like this on my blog. Until next time!