Tomato sauce (with broth)

Tomato sauce with broth - a simple and quick recipe

Do you dream of a tomato sauce that transforms your ordinary meals into unforgettable feasts? The tomato sauce with broth is the perfect solution! With a rich taste and an unmistakable aroma, this sauce is the ideal companion for meatballs, mashed potatoes, schnitzels, or smoked meat. Here’s how to prepare it in a few simple steps, but with a result that will surely impress everyone.

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons flour (use white flour for a fine texture)
- 300 ml tomato broth (preferably homemade, but store-bought is also acceptable)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper (you can experiment with pepper mixes for a more complex flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes)

The history of tomato sauce is fascinating, with deep roots in traditional cuisine, used in countless dishes worldwide. This sauce represents not only a delicious accompaniment but also a way to add color and flavor to any meal.

Step by step in preparing the tomato sauce:

1. Start by bringing the oil to the right temperature. Pour 4 tablespoons of oil into a pot and let it heat over medium heat. It’s important not to let it smoke, just to become warm.

2. Add the flour to the warm oil. Stir constantly with a spatula or whisk until the flour becomes slightly golden. This step is essential to eliminate the taste of raw flour and to get a delicious base for the sauce.

3. Once the flour is browned, it’s time to extinguish it with the tomato broth. Gradually add 300 ml of broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. It’s recommended to use a quality, homemade broth for a more authentic taste.

4. Next, add the bay leaf and ground pepper. These spices will provide depth and flavor to the sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Check the consistency of the sauce. It should be similar to that of flowing cream. If it’s too thick, you can add a little water or broth to thin it out. Taste the sauce and add salt to your preference.

6. If you want to reduce acidity, add a teaspoon of sugar. This will balance the taste of the sauce and enhance the flavors.

7. Once the sauce is ready, remove the bay leaf and serve it warm.

Serving suggestions:
The tomato sauce with broth pairs perfectly with juicy meatballs, creamy mashed potatoes, or crispy schnitzels. You can also try serving it with pasta for a quick and satisfying meal, or even as a base for a delicious pizza.

Variations of the recipe:
1. Add crushed garlic for an extra flavor boost.
2. Replace the pepper with chili for a spicy sauce.
3. You can add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a Mediterranean touch.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This tomato sauce recipe is relatively light, with about 100 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, providing benefits for the immune system and skin health. Flour provides carbohydrates, while olive oil adds healthy fats to the diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of broth?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to peel and mash them before adding them to the sauce.
2. How can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use.
3. What other dishes pair well with this sauce?
Tomato sauce pairs wonderfully with dishes like lasagna, ratatouille, or as a base for soups.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious tomato sauce with broth, all that’s left is to get started! This simple and quick sauce can become the base for many savory meals, so don’t hesitate to try it and adapt it to your liking. It may become a favorite in your family, just as it has in many other homes around the world. Enjoy!