Simple Sweet and Spicy Tomato Sauce

 Simple Sweet & Spicy Tomato Sauce

1 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1/2 sweet yellow onion, finely diced
2 lbs. garden fresh tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, cut into a chiffonade
2-3 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. Vietnamese cinnamon** (I always add cinnamon to my tomato basil concoctions…it’s the secret weapon!)
1/4 tsp. + Jacobsen Lemon Zest Sea Salt (any fine sea salt will do – but this is truly the best)
1/8 + tsp. freshly ground pepper

 

In a medium-sized pot, heat oil over medium to low heat.  Add onions and cook until translucent.  As the onions begin to caramelize, add the tomatoes.  Once bubbling, reduce heat to a simmer and cover, allowing the juices to release and the tomatoes to cook down. 
 Every 3-5 minutes, check the tomatoes, stirring, to ensure no sticking and that things are beginning to reduce into a chunky sauce. 

(If additional moisture is needed, slowly add vegetable broth or additional tomatoes).  

After about 15-20 minutes, add basil, vinegar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.  
Stir for an additional 2 minutes and remove from heat.

 

For maximum flavor development, allow to cool overnight and reheat to serve the next day.  Otherwise, drizzle over grilled pork chops, steak, or even chicken…or serve over perfectly baked spaghetti squash.