SAMBUCA TOMATO SAUCE

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Sambuca Tomato Sauce image

This recipe has all the elements to enhance lightly grilled summer shrimp, steamed cherrystones or mussels & maybe even as a base for stewed quarters of blue crab. The anise flavor of Sambuca should meld beautifully with the brightness of fresh tomatoes & the pungency of fresh Genovese basil. The author suggested it on bruschetta (mmmm toasty grilled chunks of olive oil brushed country bread!) This recipe was a Washington Post 2008 Top Tomato Recipe Contest finalist from Susan Lee Mahan of Bethesda. Strong work Susan! She also suggests slipping the tomato skins before proceeding with the recipe - up to you - I don't mind them a bit. Dreaming of summer 'maters.... I hope lining up some outstanding tomato recipes doesn't constitute "counting yer chickens..."

Provided by Busters friend

Categories     Sauces

Time 22m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
2 garlic cloves, cut into thin slices
2 1/2 lbs tomatoes, ripe plum (peeled and seeded)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, crushed
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1/4 cup sambuca romana
4 tablespoons basil leaves, shredded

Steps:

  • Heat the olive oil in a medium, high-sided saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic slices and cook for several minutes, until they are slightly golden, stirring occasionally. Use a fork or slotted spoon to remove them, if desired.
  • Quarter the tomatoes lengthwise , leaving the stem ends intact. Turn them on their sides and cut into 1/4-inch slices.
  • Add the tomatoes and their juices, the crushed red pepper flakes, sugar, salt and pepper to the saucepan. Cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes, stirring once or twice, then add the Sambuca and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and add the basil.
  • Adjust seasoning as needed; drizzle with a little oil just before serving.

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