Yes, you can use dried herbs, but the amount should be reduced because dried herbs are more concentrated. It is recommended to use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs.
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water or vegetable broth until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well to mix evenly.
It is very tempting and easy to grab a jar of store-bought tomato sauce now that there are so many ready-made sauces available, but homemade sauce really makes a difference. The taste is simply fresher and more authentic.
As a sauce for Pasta Pour over your favorite pasta and sprinkle with grated parmesan.
For Pizza Use as a base sauce for homemade pizza.
As a dip Serve with fresh vegetables or crusty bread.
With meat or fish Use as a sauce for various meat or fish dishes.
Tomatoes - Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which has cancer-fighting and heart disease-fighting properties.
Onions - Onions contain high levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants that help maintain cardiovascular health and immune system health.
Garlic - Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties and is believed to help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
Thyme - Thyme is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, as well as compounds with antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Basil - Basil contains essential oils and antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Now you know how to make homemade marinara sauce with easy steps and just a few ingredients.
Use fresh ingredients - It is always best to use fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, thyme, and basil if you have the option. This will enhance the flavor and aroma of the sauce.
Proper chopping - When chopping onions and garlic, try to make them into very fine pieces. This will allow the flavors to blend better and create a unique aroma.
Do not burn the garlic - Garlic cooks very quickly and can give a bitter taste if burned. Sauté it for only about 30 seconds until it reaches a light golden color.
Try different types of tomatoes - You can experiment with different types of tomatoes for different textures and flavors. Some types may be sweeter, while others may be more acidic.
Slow cooking on low heat - Allow the sauce to cook slowly on low heat. This will enhance the sauce and optimally blend all the flavors.
Spicy marinara sauce - Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Seafood marinara - For a more exotic flavor, add some seafood like shrimp or mussels to the sauce.
Vegetable marinara sauce - For a vegetarian version, add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
Creamy marinara sauce - Add some cream or cream cheese for a creamier consistency.
Vegan option - Use vegan alternatives to butter and replace cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan version of marinara sauce.
