A Sink-full of Tomatoes!

At the market it just doesn't seem like that much... it's such a better deal... only $20 for a huge box (my guess is about 25 lbs)... the problem begins when you get them home. So after a nice hike this morning (and breakfast in bed!)  I started cooking. Today's project is "Crush" it's the perfect sauce to make because it's just basic and later you can add whatever you want to spice it up. This is also easy to can it just needs to be processed for 10 min. I also love it because you don't have to peel them first. Recipe adapted from Saveur

Crushed Tomatoes

10 lbs. ripe San Marzano tomatoes if you can't find this type, just use romas

(if you are like me and buy big then double the recipe)

Cut the tomatoes in half and put in a huge pot (not aluminum) simmer stirring often about 45 min. until they are soft. Put the tomatoes through a food mill then return to clean pots and simmer on low about 3 hours or reduced by about half. Freeze in about 3 quart size containers. 

To make a simple italian pasta sauce saute a few slivers of garlic in olive oil add a little crushed red pepper then add the sauce cook for a little while then add a couple chopped basil leaves. Cook spaghetti put it in a bowl and place about 1/3 cup chopped fresh mozzarella cubes on top. Ladle some sauce over the dish - it's delicious! The cheese will get melty and string from your fork!