How to Make Alton Brown’s Heirloom Tomato Pizza Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever wondered how to make the rich, flavorful pizza sauce that Alton Brown is famous for? With his signature culinary touch, Alton Brown's heirloom tomato pizza sauce is a celebrated masterpiece. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of finding the ingredients, preparing the tomatoes, and creating the perfect sauce, all right at home.

Where to Find the Recipe

The journey begins with a quick search online. Whether you’re on Google or Pinterest, you can easily find Alton Brown's recipe for heirloom tomato pizza sauce. A simple search for “Alton Brown pizza sauce” will provide you with a wealth of information. Once you've found a reliable source, jot down the ingredients and prepare to embark on your culinary adventure!

Gathering Your Ingredients

The first step is to compile the ingredients you need. Alton Brown's recipe primarily involves the following:

Heirloom tomatoes Garlic Onion Salt Sugar Herbs (optional) Vinegar (optional)

Visit your local grocery store to buy the ingredients you don't have at home. Heirloom tomatoes can be found in the produce section, while garlic, onions, and other seasonings will be easily accessible. If you prefer to buy specific brands or organic ingredients, additional trips to specialty stores or online marketplaces may be necessary.

Preparing the Tomatoes

Before you start cooking, it's crucial to prepare your tomatoes. Alton Brown often suggests blanching the tomatoes, which involves briefly cooking them in boiling water and then plunging them into ice water. This process makes it easy to remove the skin and allows the tomatoes to break down more easily.

Place the tomatoes in a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This will help peel the skin. Once the tomatoes are chilled, peel them and chop them into small pieces.

Cooking the Sauce

Now it's time to start cooking the sauce. Follow Alton Brown's recipe closely, or adapt it to your taste. Here’s a basic structure:

In a large pot, sauté the finely chopped garlic and onion until they become translucent. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and develops a rich flavor. Season with salt and sugar to taste. Alton Brown often recommends using a bit of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Add herbs or vinegar if desired, and stir well to combine.

Tips and Variations

To achieve the best results, consider these tips:

Use a mix of different heirloom tomato varieties for a more complex flavor profile. Add a touch of balsamic vinegar for an extra depth of flavor. Use a food mill or blender to puree the sauce if you prefer a smoother texture. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze portions for later use.

Alton Brown’s heirloom tomato pizza sauce is more than just a recipe—it's a delightful culinary journey. With a bit of preparation, some fresh ingredients, and a dash of creativity, you too can create this delectable sauce at home.

Conclusion

Alton Brown’s heirloom tomato pizza sauce is a masterpiece that any home cook can replicate. By following these steps and adapting them to your taste, you can enjoy the same rich, flavorful sauce that has delighted countless pizza lovers. So, grab your ingredients, turn on your stove, and get ready to cook up a storm!