The 2 Best Ways To Make Simple Fresh Tomato Puree

The 2 Best Ways to Make Simple Fresh Tomato Puree

What’s better than the taste of fresh, homemade tomato puree? It’s versatile, delicious, and adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you want to make a classic marinara sauce, a vibrant salsa, or a creamy tomato soup, starting with a simple fresh tomato puree is key. In this article, we will explore the two best ways to make this wholesome and flavorful ingredient that will elevate your culinary creations.

Method 1: Stovetop Simmering

This traditional method is perfect if you have some time to spare and want to extract every bit of flavor from your tomatoes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by selecting ripe and juicy tomatoes. Plum or Roma tomatoes work exceptionally well for purees.
2. Wash the tomatoes thoroughly, remove the stems, and cut them into quarters.
3. Place a large pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it for a minute.
4. Add the quartered tomatoes to the pot, along with a pinch of salt and any desired herbs or seasonings.
5. Simmer the tomatoes gently, stirring occasionally, for around 30-45 minutes until they have completely broken down and turned into a thick sauce-like consistency.
6. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or using an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
7. If you prefer a smoother consistency, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or skins.

Method 2: Quick Blender Method

If you’re short on time or prefer a more streamlined approach, this quick blender method will get you a tasty tomato puree in no time:

1. Choose ripe tomatoes and wash them thoroughly. Remove the stems and roughly chop them.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes into a blender or food processor.
3. Pulse the tomatoes a few times until they break down into a coarse puree.
4. If desired, you can add some fresh herbs, garlic, or a pinch of salt and pulse a few more times to incorporate the flavors.
5. To achieve a smoother consistency, blend the puree for a longer duration until it reaches your desired texture.
6. If needed, strain the puree through a sieve to remove any larger chunks or seeds.

Voila! You now have two easy and efficient methods to make simple fresh tomato puree. Whichever method you choose, remember to use the ripest tomatoes available to achieve the best flavor. Store the puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.

Now that you have your homemade tomato puree, the possibilities are endless. Use it as a base for pasta sauces, soups, stews, or even as a topping for pizzas. The freshness and vibrant taste of your homemade puree will undoubtedly elevate your dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness. Enjoy!