Pelat (Pizza Sauce)

Elevate your homemade pizzas with this flavorful Pelat, a traditional Italian sauce specially crafted for pizza perfection. Made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, this sauce adds a burst of freshness to every bite. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Pelat that will take your pizza game to the next level.

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped

- 800 g peeled tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)

- 2 teaspoons sugar (optional)

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- A handful of coarsely chopped basil leaves

- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the crushed or finely chopped garlic to the hot oil and sauté until softened, taking care not to brown it (approximately 1 minute).

3. In a bowl, mash the peeled tomatoes using a fork or pass them through a food mill to achieve a smooth consistency.

4. Pour the mashed tomatoes into the pan with the garlic-infused oil.

5. Add the optional sugar (if using), salt, chopped basil leaves, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to the pan.

6. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

7. Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat.

With its vibrant flavors and rich aroma, this homemade Pelat is the perfect complement to your favorite pizza recipes. Whether you're hosting a pizza night with friends or craving a slice of authentic Italian flavor, this sauce will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Prepare a batch today and enjoy the taste of Italy in every bite. Buon appetito!