Passata di pomodoro is an Italian staple. You have likely heard of it or used it without even knowing! Tomato passata is something any chef should be familiar with and its history and traditions are also worth knowing.
1 food mill or tomato strainer machine essential for getting the desired consistency
1 Cutting Board for tomato prep
1 Sharp Knife to cut the tomatoes
large pots with at least one with a lid for cooking the tomato passata and then for sterilizing and boiling the cans
Large bowl for the tomatoes
Instructions
Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice each tomato in half and gently squeeze or scoop out the seeds. You can opt to leave the seeds in the tomatoes and simply strain them later in the recipe, however, removing them in the beginning is the best way to ensure there are no seeds in the passata. It also prevents the passata from being too liquid and creates a thick sauce with a smooth consistency.
Place the clean, halved tomatoes in a large pot, cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook the tomatoes until they are soft, not totally mushy. It will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Some people add salt to the recipe at this point, but traditionally it is left without salt so it can be used in any recipe.
Place the tomatoes through a strainer machine or food mill, this removes the seeds and some skin and makes the sauce very smooth.
If the sauce seems too liquid at this stage, put it through a very fine strainer to remove some of the liquid and obtain the right consistency.
You can add some basil leaves if desired. Your wonderful homemade passata is now ready to can or use in recipes such as soups, sauce for pasta or other Italian dishes you love.