Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, finely chopped (for sweetness and to reduce acidity)
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
• 4 pounds fresh tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened are best)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste (for depth of flavor)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (neutralizes acidity)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity and add sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fresh Tomatoes:

• Blanch the tomatoes to remove the skins. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato and submerge them in the boiling water for 30-60 seconds until the skins start to peel back.
• Transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove the cores, and chop the tomatoes. Set aside.

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery (if using).

1. Cook the Base:

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 7-10 minutes.

1. Add the Fresh Tomatoes:

• Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pot.
• Stir in the tomato paste.

1. Season the Sauce:

• Add the dried oregano and thyme. Stir to combine.
• Add the sugar and baking soda. The mixture will foam slightly as the baking soda neutralizes the acidity.

1. Simmer:

• Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

1. Add Fresh Basil and Blend:

• During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the chopped fresh basil.
• After simmering, remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Transfer the sauce to your Ninja blender in batches if necessary, and blend until smooth. Be careful with hot liquids to avoid splattering.

1. Adjust Seasoning:

• Return the blended sauce to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• If you want a richer flavor, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

1. Serve:

• Warm the sauce over low heat if needed before serving.
• Serve over your favorite cooked spaghetti or pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips:

• For an even lower acid version, you can add a pinch more baking soda if needed.
• Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor, so feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as personal preferences for salt and sweetness vary.