Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce from Fresh Tomatoes

Tomato sauce, a staple in many kitchens, can be easily made using fresh tomatoes in a slow cooker. This method not only enhances the flavor but also saves you time and effort while allowing the rich aromas to fill your home. Here’s a simple guide to making delicious tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes in a crock pot.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need about 5 to 6 pounds of ripe, fresh tomatoes—Roma or San Marzano varieties work best due to their low moisture content. Additionally, you will require 1 large onion, 4 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and an assortment of herbs. Fresh basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley are excellent choices. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.

Begin by preparing the tomatoes. While you can use them as is, blanching them for a minute in boiling water and then placing them in ice water makes peeling much easier. Remove the skins, core them, and chop the tomatoes into quarters. The slow cooker will handle the rest.

In the slow cooker, add your chopped tomatoes along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and sprinkle in your herbs. A good rule of thumb is to use about two teaspoons of dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones at hand, which can be added for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper based on your preference.

Set the slow cooker on low for an extended cooking time, roughly 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you're in a rush, the high setting works as well, but keep an eye on it and cook for about 4 hours. As the sauce cooks, stirring occasionally will ensure even distribution of flavors.

Once the cooking is complete, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. For a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender or transfer it in batches to a regular blender.

Your homemade tomato sauce is ready to be served! It can be used immediately over pasta, as a base for pizza, or stored in jars for future use. Making tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes in a crock pot is not only rewarding but also a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer all year long. Enjoy your culinary creation!