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Roasted Tomato Sauce/Paste

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Ingredients

  • 6 cookie sheets halved cherry or Roma tomatoes
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 bell peppers, chopped
  • 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes:

  • Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
  • Slice the tomatoes in half and arrange them on cookie sheets in a single layer, cut side up.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
  • Roast in the oven for 2-3 hours or until the tomatoes are shriveled and slightly caramelized.

Sauté the Vegetables:

  • Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large pan.
  • Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers are soft.

Combine and Blend:

  • Once the tomatoes are roasted, add them to the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
  • Add the fresh basil leaves and cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Blend the mixture into a smooth paste using a blender or a food processor (like your Cuisinart).
  • While blending, slowly add olive oil to achieve a rich, smooth consistency.

Season to Taste:

  • After blending, taste your tomato paste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Store:

  • Transfer the finished tomato paste into half-pint jars.
  • You can store them in the fridge for a week or so or freeze them for extended storage.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:
This roasted tomato paste is incredibly versatile. Spread it on crackers with goat cheese and fresh basil for a simple yet luxurious snack, or use it as a base for pasta sauces, soups, or stews. The concentrated flavor makes it perfect for adding depth to any dish.
Final Thoughts
The effort put into making this paste makes you appreciate the rich, earthy flavor it brings to your dishes. While it might seem like a lot of work for a small yield, the taste is worth every minute spent roasting, sautéing, and blending. Your Italian friend Elizabeth’s confirmation that “this is it” only underscores the authenticity of the process and result. Enjoy your homemade roasted tomato paste!