Elevated Spicy Tomato Sauce

A sophisticated and flavorful twist on the classic tomato sauce, with a hint of spice and richness.

Ingredients

2	prepared as described below
5	tablespoons butter
2	peeled and cut in half
3	garlic cloves
2	medium bird's eye chilis, chopped
2	teaspoons ground cumin
2	handfuls of arugula
	Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• 1. Begin by roasting the garlic cloves in the oven at 345ºF. Wrap them in aluminum foil and bake until soft and slightly golden, approximately 15-25 minutes.
  2. Blanch the fresh, ripe tomatoes in salted boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Remove, cool, peel, and chop them into coarse pieces.
  3. In a saucepan, combine the prepared tomatoes with butter, halved onions, peeled garlic cloves, chopped bird's eye chilis, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Simmer uncovered for 35-45 minutes until thickened.
  4. Occasionally stir the sauce and use the back of a wooden spoon to break down any large tomato pieces.
  5. Adjust salt to taste. Once the onions are tender and the sauce reaches desired consistency (you can drain excess liquid), add the arugula. Cook until well incorporated.
  6. If preferred, remove the onion before serving, although many enjoy leaving it in for added flavor.

Jul 18, 2024