Fresh Tomato Sauce(A Relish)
A vibrant, tangy fresh tomato sauce with sweet peppers and onions, perfect for preserving summer flavors and complementing a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the peppers and onions in a coarse grinder or blender.
- Put the chopped peppers and onions in a colander and squeeze down to remove all juices.
- Put the tomatoes in hot water and peel them.
- Put the peeled tomatoes in a colander and squeeze to remove all juices, discarding the juices.
- Put all the tomato pulp in a large non-aluminum pot.
- Add sugar, vinegar, and salt; simmer the mixture for 2 hours.
- Seal the hot sauce in tight half-pint jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, blend the tomatoes before cooking. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 1 cup or substitute with honey for a different flavor profile. Experiment with adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the taste. This sauce can also be adjusted for heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This fresh tomato sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meats, or as a topping for bruschetta. It also makes a fantastic dip for fresh bread or crackers. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing Cabbage Carrot Salad for a balanced meal. For an Italian twist, top your favorite pizza with this sauce for a homemade touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags, laying them flat for easy stacking. To reheat, gently warm the sauce on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain a consistent temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Tomato Sauce(A Relish) contains roughly 394 calories, with 9g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (291% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2954mg per serving (128% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can substitute canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable. Use about 3 cans of whole peeled tomatoes, and be sure to drain excess liquid before processing. The flavor may vary, but it will still yield a delicious sauce.
How can I adjust the acidity of the sauce?
To balance the acidity, you can add a small amount of baking soda (about 1/4 teaspoon) during cooking. This will neutralize some of the acid and reduce the tanginess. Alternatively, adding a bit more sugar can also help mellow the acidity without altering the overall flavor significantly.
Is it possible to can this sauce for longer storage?
Yes, this sauce can be safely canned using proper canning techniques. Ensure you use sterilized jars and process them in a boiling water bath for at least 15 minutes. Always check for proper seals after cooling and store in a cool, dark place. This allows you to enjoy the sauce long after tomato season.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).