Cretan Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In Cretan cuisine, the Tomato Sauce takes on a unique twist by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. Cretan Tomato Sauce typically includes the addition of Cretan olive oil, which adds a distinct fruity and peppery note to the sauce. The herbs used in Cretan cuisine, such as oregano and thyme, are also added to enhance the flavor profile. These adaptations give the sauce a distinct Cretan touch, making it a true representation of the region's culinary heritage. We alse have the original recipe for Tomato Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
• 4 tablespoons Cretan extra virgin olive oil 4 tablespoons Cretan extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir well.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, and basil over the tomatoes.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat.
8. 8.
   Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Use ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For a chunkier sauce, you can leave some tomato pieces slightly larger.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness.
• Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• This sauce can be frozen for future use. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw as needed.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve the Cretan Tomato Sauce over al dente pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, for a classic Mediterranean meal. Top with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor. This sauce also pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or as a dip for crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Cretan Tomato Sauce with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprig of fresh oregano or basil. Serve it in a rustic ceramic bowl or on a colorful platter to showcase the vibrant red color of the sauce.