Tomato sauce is a mother sauce which is versatile and widely used condiment or base in cooking that is made from tomatoes, typically simmered with various ingredients to enhance flavor. It serves as a key ingredient in a variety of dishes and cuisines around the world. Here's a basic recipe for a simple homemade tomato sauce:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 ounces (about 800g) canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions:

Sauté Onions and Garlic:

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes:

• Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes. If using whole tomatoes, you can crush them with a spoon or your hands as they cook.

Season:

• Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Optionally, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Simmer:

• Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.

Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

Use as Desired:

• The tomato sauce is now ready to be used in various dishes. It can be used as a pasta sauce, pizza sauce, base for stews, or as an ingredient in countless recipes.

Tips:

This basic tomato sauce can be customized by adding additional ingredients such as red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, or even a splash of red wine, depending on your taste and the intended use of the sauce. Homemade tomato sauce allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, and it can be a delicious and essential element in your cooking repertoire.