Tomate Frito Recipe: Easy Homemade Sauce in Minutes

Tomate frito is a beloved Spanish staple that brings vibrant, rich tomato flavor to countless dishes. This simple yet flavorful tomato sauce is a kitchen essential, perfect for enhancing everything from pasta and rice to stews and tapas.

Unlike basic tomato sauces, tomate frito is subtly sweetened and lightly sautéed with garlic and onion, creating a depth of flavor that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary adventurer, mastering this recipe will elevate your cooking and offer a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine right from your own stove.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through an easy, authentic tomate frito recipe with straightforward ingredients and clear steps. You’ll also discover handy tips, variations to suit your palate, and serving ideas to make the most of this versatile sauce.

Ready to add some Spanish sunshine to your meals? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomate frito is a fantastic way to have fresh, home-cooked tomato sauce on hand anytime. Unlike canned or jarred sauces, this recipe uses fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that bring out the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes without overpowering them.

The sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as a base for Afghan Vegetarian Pulao, stir it into your favorite pasta, or add it to stews and casseroles for a comforting, rich tomato flavor.

Plus, it’s easy to customize — whether you like it spicy, sweet, or herby, this recipe can adapt to your tastes.

Best of all, making your own tomate frito is cost-effective and free from preservatives, so it’s a healthier, tastier alternative to pre-made sauces.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds (700g) ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum tomatoes work best)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky depth
• Optional: fresh basil or oregano for garnish or flavor enhancement

Equipment

• Medium saucepan or deep skillet
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Blender or food processor (for a smooth sauce)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine sieve or food mill (optional, for extra smooth texture)
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch the tomatoes in the boiling water for about 30 seconds until the skin starts to loosen.
2. Peel and chop: Immediately transfer the tomatoes to an ice bath to cool. Peel off the skins, then roughly chop the tomatoes, discarding the seeds if you prefer a less bitter taste.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, making sure not to burn it.
4. Cook the tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reduces.
5. Blend the sauce: Remove the pan from heat. Using a blender or food processor, blend the sauce until smooth. For an extra silky texture, strain the sauce through a fine sieve or food mill.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a fresher note, stir in some chopped fresh basil or oregano just before serving.
7. Store: Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky twist, add a splash of sherry vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika.

If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse the tomatoes less in the blender or skip blending altogether. For a richer sauce, try adding a splash of red wine during the simmering stage.

Want to spice it up? Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when sautéing the onions.

For a sweeter version, increase the sugar slightly or add grated carrot during cooking.

To make this recipe vegan and oil-free, substitute olive oil with vegetable broth and sauté the onions gently until soft.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Tomate frito is a truly multi-purpose sauce. Serve it with pasta for a quick dinner or use it as a base for dishes like Spanish rice or shakshuka.

It’s also fantastic spooned over grilled vegetables or as a dipping sauce for bread and tapas.

For a comforting meal, try pairing it with a Vegan Potato Corn Chowder or add it to a vegetable casserole like those featured in Cooking Light Vegetarian Casserole Recipes.

Looking for a fresh side to balance the rich tomato flavor? A crisp Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan offers a bright contrast.

Conclusion

Making your own tomate frito is a rewarding way to bring authentic Spanish flavors into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum taste. The fresh tomatoes, gently cooked with aromatic garlic and onion, create a sauce that’s both simple and versatile enough to enhance countless recipes.

Whether you’re looking for a quick pasta topping or a flavorful base for more complex dishes, this recipe provides a delicious foundation.

With a few easy ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy the vibrant taste of homemade tomate frito anytime. Plus, by customizing it with your favorite spices and herbs, the possibilities are endless.

Don’t forget to check out other fantastic recipes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals to keep your meal planning exciting and flavorful!

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