Canned tomato sauce

Canned tomato sauce is a basic and versatile ingredient in the kitchen, made from cooked and seasoned tomatoes, hermetically sealed to preserve their flavor and freshness for long periods. Its texture is usually smooth and slightly thick, making it ideal for use as a base in a wide variety of recipes, from pastas and stews to sauces and soups.

The origin of tomato sauce dates back to Mediterranean culinary traditions, especially in Italy, where tomatoes have been used for centuries to prepare sauces that accompany dishes like pasta and pizza. Today, canned tomato sauce is produced in many regions of the world, ensuring the availability of tomatoes out of season.

Regarding its properties, canned tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, a natural antioxidant that helps combat cellular damage and is associated with benefits for cardiovascular health. In addition, it provides vitamins A and C, and is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option to enhance the flavor of foods.

In Hispanic America, canned tomato sauce is also known as salsa de jitomate (especially in Mexico), puré de tomate (tomato puree), or simply tomate triturado (crushed tomatoes), depending on the country and the texture of the product. It is important to note that, although the terms may vary, its use in the kitchen is very similar, serving as a fundamental base for multiple traditional dishes.