Tomato sauce

Tomato Sauce

Homemade tomato sauce simmering on the stove
Alternative names	Marinara sauce
Type	Sauce
Region or state	Worldwide
Main ingredients	Tomatoes, herbs, onions, garlic
Variations	Marinara, Bolognese, Vodka sauce, Arrabbiata
Cookbook: Tomato Sauce   Media: Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce, also known as marinara sauce in certain contexts, is a sauce made primarily from tomatoes, alongside various herbs and spices. It serves as a staple in many cuisines around the globe, particularly in Italian cuisine, where it is a fundamental component of dishes such as pasta, pizza, and lasagna. Tomato sauce's origins trace back to southern Italy, specifically to the regions of Naples and Sicily, with the first recorded use dating to the late 17th century after tomatoes were brought to Europe from the Americas.

History

The history of tomato sauce begins with the introduction of the tomato to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century. Initially, tomatoes were met with suspicion and were thought to be poisonous. However, by the late 17th century, particularly in the Kingdom of Naples, which was then part of the Spanish Empire, tomatoes began to be incorporated into the local cuisine. The first known tomato sauce recipes appeared in Italian cookbooks in the 18th century, showcasing the sauce's simplicity and versatility.

Ingredients and Preparation

Traditional tomato sauce is made with ripe tomatoes, which are cooked down into a thick sauce and seasoned with onions, garlic, and herbs such as basil and oregano. Olive oil is commonly used to sauté the base ingredients before adding tomatoes. Depending on regional and personal preferences, ingredients such as carrots, celery, capers, olives, and various meats may be added to enrich the sauce.

Variations

• Marinara Sauce: A quick-cooked sauce that includes tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and onions. It does not usually contain meat.
• Bolognese Sauce: A meat-based sauce originating from Bologna, Italy, incorporating ground meat, soffritto, tomato paste, and milk or cream.
• Arrabbiata Sauce: A spicy sauce made from garlic, tomatoes, and dried red chili peppers cooked in olive oil.
• Vodka Sauce: A creamy sauce that includes vodka, tomatoes, cream, and Italian herbs.

Culinary Uses

Tomato sauce is incredibly versatile and serves as a base for numerous dishes across various cuisines. In Italian cooking, it is a primary ingredient in pasta dishes, a base for pizzas, and a component in meat preparations. Beyond Italian cuisine, tomato sauce is used in Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern dishes, among others, adapted to fit the flavor profiles of each cuisine.

Nutritional Information

Tomato sauce is high in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. However, store-bought tomato sauces can sometimes contain high levels of sodium and added sugars, making homemade sauce a healthier alternative.

Cultural Significance

Tomato sauce has transcended its Italian roots to become a global phenomenon, emblematic of the spread and adaptation of Italian cuisine around the world. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavor profile have made it a beloved ingredient in households and restaurants everywhere.

See Also

• Pasta dishes
• Pizza
• Italian cuisine
• Cooking techniques