Šalša (Croatian Tomato Sauce)
A recipe for Šalša- a Croatian Tomato Sauce from the Dalmatian coast! Tomatoes are simmered with plenty of garlic, onion, butter, parsley, and a little sugar for the perfect accompaniment to pasta, rice, meat, or even fries.
Servings 6 Servings
Ingredients
- 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) vine-ripened tomatoes
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion peeled and finely diced
- 5 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- 1 tablespoon 12.5 grams) granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with cold water and place nearby.
- Cut a small "x" into the bottom of each of the tomatoes and gently add them to the water. Cook for 2 minutes, then drain and place the tomatoes in the cold water.
- Once the tomatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and discard, then squeeze each tomato into a large bowl.
- In a large pot, place the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned. Stir in the tomatoes and garlic. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Once bubbling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a sauce, 45 minutes to 1 hour. If desired, use a potato masher to create a smoother sauce. Season to taste and stir in the parsley.
- Serve warm with pasta, rice, or fries.