Canned tomato sauce is a pantry staple for many home cooks. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta sauces to soups and stews. But with so many different brands and varieties available, it can be tough to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll explore the world of canned tomato sauce, from its origins to its uses in modern cooking. We'll also discuss factors to consider when choosing the right canned tomato sauce for your needs, including price, size, type, and quality.
Types of Canned Tomato Sauce
Canned tomato sauce comes in a variety of forms, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Some common types include:
- Crushed tomatoes: These are made from whole tomatoes that have been crushed and simmered, resulting in a chunky sauce.
- Diced tomatoes: These are similar to crushed tomatoes, but the tomatoes are diced into smaller pieces.
- Tomato puree: This is a smooth, concentrated sauce made from pureed tomatoes.
- Tomato paste: This is a thick, concentrated paste made from cooked and strained tomatoes.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Canned Tomato Sauce
When choosing canned tomato sauce, there are several factors to consider.
Price
Canned tomato sauce prices can vary widely depending on the brand, size, and type. You can often find good deals on generic brands, especially if you buy them in bulk. However, higher-quality brands may be worth the extra cost, especially if you plan to use the sauce in a dish where the flavor is important.
Size
Canned tomato sauce comes in a variety of sizes, from small cans to large containers. Consider how much sauce you typically use and choose a size that will fit your needs. If you are only cooking for one or two people, a smaller can may be sufficient. However, if you are cooking for a large family or hosting a party, you may want to buy a larger container.
Type
The type of canned tomato sauce you choose will depend on the dish you are making. For example, if you are making a simple spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes may be a good choice. If you are making a more complex sauce, such as a marinara sauce, you may want to use tomato puree or tomato paste for a smoother texture.
Quality
The quality of canned tomato sauce can vary widely. Some brands use lower-quality tomatoes, while others use only the best tomatoes. Look for cans that are free of added sugar, salt, or preservatives.
Brands of Canned Tomato Sauce
There are several popular brands of canned tomato sauce available, including:
- Contadina: This brand is known for its classic flavor and its wide variety of products.
- Hunt's: Another classic brand, Hunt's offers a variety of canned tomato products, including sauces, purees, and pastes.
- Progresso: This brand is known for its high-quality ingredients and its diverse range of canned soups and sauces.
- Del Monte: Del Monte is another well-known brand that offers a variety of canned tomato products, including sauces, purees, and diced tomatoes.
- Muir Glen: This brand is known for its organic tomatoes and its commitment to sustainability.
Tips for Using Canned Tomato Sauce
Here are some tips for using canned tomato sauce:
- Use it as a base for sauces: Canned tomato sauce can be used as a base for a variety of sauces, including spaghetti sauce, marinara sauce, and chili.
- Add flavor: To enhance the flavor of your tomato sauce, add herbs, spices, garlic, onions, or other vegetables.
- Thicken the sauce: If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) or tomato paste.
- Adjust the acidity: If your sauce is too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar or a tablespoon of honey to balance the flavor.
- Don't overcook: Canned tomato sauce should not be cooked for too long, as this can cause it to become bitter.
How to Store Canned Tomato Sauce
- Canned tomato sauce can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
- Once opened, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Uses for Canned Tomato Sauce
Canned tomato sauce is incredibly versatile, with numerous uses in cooking.
- Pasta sauce: Canned tomato sauce is a staple for making pasta sauce, with the ability to be customized with different herbs and spices.
- Soups and stews: It adds a rich, tangy flavor to soups and stews.
- Chilis: Canned tomato sauce is a common ingredient in chili recipes, providing a base for the chili's flavor.
- Pizza sauce: It can be used as a base for pizza sauce, and can be combined with other ingredients to create a unique flavor.
- Other uses: Canned tomato sauce can also be used in a variety of other dishes, such as lasagna, enchiladas, and even baked beans.
Conclusion
Canned tomato sauce is a kitchen staple that can be used in a wide range of dishes. With so many different brands and types available, it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Consider factors such as price, size, type, and quality when making your selection. No matter what type of canned tomato sauce you choose, you are sure to enjoy the delicious flavor it can add to your dishes.
