How to Make:
- Prepare the Base
- Place tomatoes, onions, apples, and garlic in a large heavy-based pot.
- Add a splash of vinegar to prevent sticking and cook gently until everything softens (about 30–40 minutes).
- Blend Smooth
- Remove from heat and carefully pass the mixture through a food mill or use an immersion blender until smooth.
- Season and Simmer
- Return the sauce to the pot.
- Add vinegar, sugar, salt, spices, and the muslin spice bag.
- Simmer uncovered on low heat for 1 ½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your liking.
- Prepare Jars
- While sauce cooks, sterilize jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes or using a hot dishwasher cycle.
- Fill and Seal
- Remove the spice bag.
- Ladle the hot sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1 cm headspace.
- Wipe rims, place lids on, and seal tightly.
- Canning Process
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for 40 minutes to ensure safe preservation.
- Remove carefully and allow to cool undisturbed. Check seals before storing.
- Store
- Keep in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
Notes
- Apples are a natural thickener and balance acidity without commercial thickeners.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar to your preferred taste balance.
- The sauce deepens in flavor after a few weeks, so let it mature before enjoying.
- Always check jar seals; if one hasn’t sealed properly, refrigerate and use within a week.
FAQs
Q: How long will canned tomato sauce last?
A: Properly canned and sealed sauce will last 12–18 months in a cool, dark pantry.
Q: Can I use cherry tomatoes or mixed varieties?
A: Yes, but roma or paste tomatoes are ideal as they’re meatier and less watery.
Q: Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
A: Not necessary for this rustic recipe, as the sauce is blended smooth.
Q: Can I skip the water bath canning?
A: For safe long-term storage, water bath canning is essential. Otherwise, refrigerate sauce and use within 2–3 weeks.
Nutrition (per 2-tablespoon serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
(Values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.)
Disclaimer
This recipe is for general information and home cooking enjoyment. Always follow safe canning practices. Consume tomato sauce in moderation as it contains sugar and sodium. If you have allergies to spices, vinegar, or tomatoes, please substitute or avoid accordingly.
