SMOKED TOMATO MARINARA SAUCE

     

     Marinara sauce is a staple of many Italian dishes. This has been one thing that I refuse to ever buy in a jar and have always had on hand in every kitchen I have ever run. BUT… It was time for an upgrade. Everyone is smoking everything these days and I figured this might be an interesting flavor infusion.

      Deciding to smoke the tomatoes replaces the process of steaming or boiling them to remove the skin. This recipe can be made without the smoking of the tomatoes and it will still be amazing. In complete disclosure, I have always made my marinara sauce rather thick compared to most. I can not stand a sauce that runs of the noodle… It must have sticking power.

      This marinara sauce has been served in four different locations on over 40 different dishes. I hope this smoked form has just as much success. AND NOW I GIVE TO YOU… SMOKED TOMATO MARINARA SAUCE!!!

INGREDIENTS

4 lbs. Roma Tomatoes

½ cup Sliced Garlic

½ cup Diced Sweet Onion

1/8 cup Olive Oil

¼ cup Basil (Picked and Sliced into Thin Strips)

¼ tsp Sea Salt

¼ tsp Black Pepper

¼ tsp Sugar

¼ cup Red Wine

INSTRUCTIONS

1.      Begin by cutting the tops of the Roma tomatoes off and disposing them

2.      Place tomatoes in an aluminum pan cut top up, side by side.

3.      Sprinkle exposed tops with salt and pepper.

4.      Place tomatoes in smoker and smoke till tomatoes are soft and skin splits.

5.      Remove skin from tomatoes and squeeze with hands into pan allowing to mix with flavors from pan.

6.      In a shallow saucepan, over medium heat, place oil and allow to become hot.

7.      Once hot, add garlic and onions and sauté till ingredients become tender but not soft.

8.      Add tomatoes to the saucepan and combine.

9.      Once simmering, add basil, cover, and allow to simmer for about one hour (stirring occasionally) over low heat.

10.  Add red wine and sugar. Allow to simmer (stirring occasionally) till sauce thickens.

11.  Enjoy!

I am thrilled to share this recipe with you. The smoked flavor in the sauce allows this marinara to have a wild side but tame enough to use on just about anything. Enjoy in good health.

Chef Tufaro