Ingredients
5–6 pounds (approximately 2.3–2.7 kg) paste tomatoes (such as Roma or other meaty varieties)
1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine (optional)
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 medium onion, roughly chopped
1 medium carrot, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried basil or 3 tablespoons fresh, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Honey (optional, to sweeten if needed)
Instructions
1-Wash and cut the tomatoes into halves or quarters. Add them to the crockpot along with garlic, onion, carrot, herbs, red wine (if using), and olive oil.
2-Cover and cook on low heat for 2 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
3-After the vegetables have softened and the sauce has simmered, turn off the crockpot and allow the sauce to cool.
4-Strain the sauce through a food strainer or food mill to remove skins and seeds, creating a smooth texture. You can refrigerate and cook again if necessary.
5-Return the strained sauce to the crockpot and cook on low with the lid vented to let moisture evaporate, stirring occasionally until the desired thickness is reached (approximately 4 to 6 hours or longer).
6-Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and honey if the sauce is too sharp or acidic.
7-Optional: Add additional ingredients like precooked mushrooms, green peppers, sausage, or meatballs and cook on low for 1 to 2 more hours.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍅 Use meaty, low-water tomatoes for a thicker sauce.
🧅 Cooking tomatoes with skins and seeds helps thicken sauce naturally through pectin.
🔄 Slow cook with vented lid to encourage evaporation and achieve desired thickness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 10 hours
- Cook Time: 6 to 10 hours
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Calories: 100 kcal