Welcome to the delightful world of Early Girl Tomato Sauce—a sweet and rich sauce that celebrates the flavors of ripe Early Girl tomatoes. When these tomatoes are in season during late summer and fall, seize the opportunity to create this versatile sauce that can be used to top pizzas like the Grandma or to elevate your pasta and other dishes. The secret to its exquisite taste lies in the roasting process that brings out the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and depth. Whether you prefer a thicker sauce for your pizza or a looser one for your pasta, this recipe offers options to suit your culinary preferences. So, let’s dive into the simple yet satisfying journey of making Early Girl Tomato Sauce!
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) ripe Early Girl tomatoes, stems removed
- ¼ cup (60 grams) extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of fine sea salt
- Pinch of superfine sugar, plus more as needed
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- 5 cloves garlic
PREPARATIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 500°F and line a half sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Place the tomatoes in a large metal bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan and roast for about 30 minutes until the skins crack and slightly char.
- Return the tomatoes to the bowl, sprinkle with salt and sugar, and add rosemary sprigs and garlic. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Remove the plastic wrap and discard the garlic and rosemary.
- Set a strainer over another bowl and, working over a third bowl, peel the skin off the roasted tomatoes and drop any seeds or tough sections into the bowl.
- Crush the cleaned tomato pieces into the strainer, removing excess liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
- If using the sauce on the Grandma pizza, drain most of the liquid to get approximately 1¼ cups (285 grams) of crushed tomatoes. For a sauce to be used on pizza or pasta, leave more liquid while ensuring it has enough body to stay on the pizza or pasta without running.
TIPS:
- Seek out ripe Early Girl tomatoes during their peak season for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference, depending on the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
- Customize the sauce’s consistency based on its intended use: thicker for pizza, looser for pasta.
YIELD:
- 1½ to 2½ cups (340 to 570 grams)
With the fragrance of perfectly roasted Early Girl tomatoes and the harmonious blend of herbs and spices, our Early Girl Tomato Sauce captures the essence of the late summer and fall harvest. The sweet and rich flavors of this sauce make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, allowing you to craft an array of delectable dishes.
The roasting process adds a delightful depth of flavor to the tomatoes, transforming them into a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with various recipes. Whether you opt to drain most of the liquid for a thicker sauce, ideal for topping pizzas like the Grandma, or leave it looser for pasta dishes, this sauce will always delight your taste buds.
The key to success lies in choosing perfectly ripe Early Girl tomatoes, as their sweetness and juiciness form the foundation of this sauce. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and roasted to perfection, the tomatoes become tender and slightly charred, infusing every spoonful with a burst of seasonal goodness.
Our tips provide flexibility, allowing you to tailor the sauce to suit your preferences and the dishes you intend to create. A thicker consistency complements pizzas and focaccia, adding a burst of flavor with every bite. For pasta dishes, you can enjoy the sauce with more liquid, creating a luscious coating that elevates any pasta variety.
As you prepare this Early Girl Tomato Sauce, take a moment to appreciate the fresh, natural ingredients that make it shine. This sauce is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, showcasing the quality of seasonal produce in every mouthful.
Feel free to experiment with the sauce by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices. Basil, oregano, or a touch of red pepper flakes can lend their unique flavors, enhancing the sauce to your liking.
Whether you serve it over your favorite pizza, pasta, or as a dipping sauce for crusty bread, our Early Girl Tomato Sauce is sure to leave a lasting impression. Share the love and warmth of seasonal goodness with your family and friends, and let the delicious memories linger long after the last bite.
