Tomato and Basil Sauce - An Enduring Flavour Combination

Ciao a tutti! Here at Carluccio's, we believe in celebrating the simple yet profound joys of Italian cuisine. And when it comes to iconic flavours, few combinations sing quite as harmoniously as the vibrant duo of tomato and basil. This week, we're diving deep into the history and heart of our beloved Tomato and Basil Sauce (Sugo Pomodoro e Basilico).

A Tale of Two Treasures: The History of Tomato and Basil

It's hard to imagine Italian food without the luscious red of the tomato, but surprisingly, this fruit is a relative newcomer to European kitchens! Tomatoes, native to the Andes region of South America, were first brought to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. For a long time, they were viewed with suspicion, considered ornamental or even poisonous. It wasn't until the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in Southern Italy, that brave culinary pioneers began to embrace their delicious potential. The warm, sunny climate of regions like Campania proved ideal for cultivating sweet, juicy tomatoes, and their popularity quickly exploded.

Basil, on the other hand, boasts a far more ancient lineage in the Mediterranean. Originally from India, it journeyed west along ancient trade routes, arriving in Europe thousands of years ago. Revered by many cultures for its fragrant leaves and even perceived medicinal properties, basil (whose name comes from the Greek "basileus," meaning "king") was a staple in Italian gardens long before the tomato arrived.

The Love Affair Begins: When Tomato Met Basil

So, how did these two culinary titans come together in such a perfect union? It was a match made in gastronomic heaven. As tomatoes became firmly entrenched in Italian cooking, particularly in pasta sauces, it was only natural to pair them with the aromatic, peppery sweetness of fresh basil. The acidity of the tomato is beautifully mellowed by the basil's perfume, creating a balanced, bright, and incredibly satisfying flavour profile.

Italians, with their innate understanding of ingredient harmony, quickly fell in love with this combination. It's a cornerstone of regional cooking, from the simplest pasta al pomodoro to the most elaborate pizzas and bruschettas. The reason for this enduring affection is clear: it’s pure, unadulterated flavour, celebrating the best of what fresh, quality ingredients have to offer.

Bring the Taste of Italy Home: A Simple Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe

While our Carluccio's Tomato and Basil Sauce offers the ultimate in convenience and authentic flavour (made with the finest Italian tomatoes and fragrant basil, just as Antonio would have wanted!), we encourage you to try your hand at a homemade version too. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the essence of Italian cooking.

Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp quality olive oil

• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional, for a hint of pungency)

• 1 can (400g) good quality crushed tomatoes (San Marzano ideally!)

• A handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly torn

• Pinch of sugar (to balance acidity, if needed)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. If using, add the minced garlic and cook gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well.

3. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavours to meld and deepen. The longer it simmers, the richer it will become.

4. Just before serving, stir in the torn fresh basil leaves. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are particularly acidic.

Serve tossed with your favourite pasta, as a base for pizza, or alongside grilled chicken or fish.

The Carluccio's Promise: Authenticity and Convenience

While whipping up your own sauce is a rewarding experience, we understand that life can be busy. That's where Carluccio's comes in. Our Sugo Pomodoro e Basilico captures the very essence of homemade goodness, crafted with the finest ingredients and true to traditional Italian methods. It’s the perfect shortcut to an authentic Italian meal, bringing the warmth and flavour of our kitchen directly to yours.

So, whether you cook it yourself or let us do the work, embrace the simple, undeniable deliciousness of Tomato and Basil Sauce. It’s a classic for a reason!

Buon appetito!