How to Make Traditional Turkish Red Sauce for Rice Dishes
Traditional Turkish red sauce, known as "Domates Sosu," is a flavorful addition to many rice dishes. This sauce enhances the taste of pilafs, stews, and other Mediterranean meals. Below is a simple guide to making this exquisite sauce at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
If using fresh tomatoes, start by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. This will make peeling the skins much easier. Once peeled, chop the tomatoes into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, simply crush them with a fork or use them as they are.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. If you’re using oregano, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a smoother sauce, feel free to blend it with an immersion blender. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This traditional Turkish red sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of rice dishes, such as:
- Pilaf with chicken or lamb
- Vegetable rice
- Stuffed peppers
- Shakshuka
Drizzle the sauce over your rice dish or mix it in for a richer flavor experience. Enjoy your delicious, homemade traditional Turkish red sauce!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftover sauce, allow it to cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about a week. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months, making it easy to add a burst of flavor to your meals later on.
Making traditional Turkish red sauce for rice dishes is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can elevate your meals to a new level of flavor and authenticity.