Arteflame Grilled Tomato Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Take your tomato sauce to the next level with the Arteflame grill! By fire-roasting fresh tomatoes and aromatics on the grill, this recipe imparts a smoky depth that enhances the sauce's natural sweetness and flavor. Perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a base for other dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened)
• 1 medium onion, peeled and quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Light the Arteflame grill by soaking three paper napkins in vegetable oil and placing them under stacked firewood.
2. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop and central grate are ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and halve the tomatoes.
2. Drizzle the tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Vegetables

1. Place the halved tomatoes, onion quarters, and unpeeled garlic cloves on the flat cooktop or center grill grate.
2. Grill the vegetables until they are charred and softened:
   • Tomatoes: 4-6 minutes per side.
   • Onion: About 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
   • Garlic: About 5-6 minutes, turning frequently to prevent burning.
3. Remove the vegetables from the grill and let them cool slightly.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

1. Peel the garlic cloves and transfer them to a blender or food processor.
2. Add the grilled tomatoes, onion, fresh basil leaves, and oregano.
3. Blend until smooth or pulse for a chunkier texture, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Simmer and Adjust

1. Pour the blended mixture into a pot or skillet on the grill’s cooler edge.
2. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken and deepen the flavor.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.

Step 6: Serve or Store

1. Use the tomato sauce immediately over pasta, pizza, or grilled dishes.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for later use.

Tips

• Char is Key: The charred skin of the tomatoes and onions adds a smoky, robust flavor to the sauce.
• Control Acidity: Add a pinch of sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.
• Consistency: Adjust the thickness by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding a splash of water or stock for a thinner texture.

Variations

1. Spicy Tomato Sauce: Add a pinch of red chili flakes during blending for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused Sauce: Stir in chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for additional herbal notes.
3. Creamy Tomato Sauce: Blend in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone for a richer, creamier sauce.
4. Garlic-Lovers Sauce: Double the garlic for a bold, garlicky flavor.
5. Vegetable-Enhanced Sauce: Grill bell peppers or zucchini alongside the tomatoes and blend them into the sauce for added sweetness and depth.

Pairings

• Pasta: Toss with spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian meal.
• Pizza: Use as a base sauce for your favorite grilled pizza.
• Grilled Proteins: Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a smoky, flavorful topping.
• Vegetables: Serve as a dipping sauce for grilled veggies like zucchini or eggplant.

Conclusion

Making tomato sauce on the Arteflame grill transforms a simple classic into a smoky, flavor-packed experience. Whether paired with pasta, pizza, or grilled dishes, this sauce is sure to elevate your meal.