You’ll see cast iron Dutch ovens in hundreds of different recipes online and in cookbooks. You can use them to bake cakes, roast chicken, or make beef stew — almost anything. But are they also useful for making tomato sauce? We’re assuming that you already know the benefits of a Dutch oven. They can be used on the stove, the oven, and even over a fire outside. They allow food to cook slowly and evenly, producing exceptional taste and texture. And they have a heavy lid which locks in moisture so your food will taste better afterwards. However, we haven’t seen many people using a cast iron Dutch oven for things like tomato sauce or chili. If you want to find out if it’s possible, keep reading!
What Is Tomato Sauce?
First, let’s talk about what tomato sauce is. In essence, it’s a puree of tomato. You can add other vegetables or herbs for extra flavors, but the main ingredient is tomatoes. You can cook the ingredients down to make a thick sauce or use them to top other dishes. Traditionally, tomato sauce is used on pasta. You can also add it to casseroles or have it as an appetizer with garlic bread. It’s a very versatile food and can be used for many different meals.
Can You Cook Tomato Sauce In A Cast Iron Dutch Oven?
The short answer is yes. You can use a Dutch oven to make tomato sauce. However, it’s not going to be easy! First, you need to decide what type of tomato sauce you want. Do you want a basic tomato sauce with just tomatoes, garlic, and salt? Or do you want a spicy tomato sauce with celery, onions, cayenne pepper, etc.? Once you’ve figured that out, you must make sure your Dutch oven is clean. You don’t want any leftover food particles in your sauce. Next, you should chop the vegetables and herbs. This will be easier than trying to puree them whole. After that, add the chopped vegetables and herbs to the Dutch oven. Add the tomatoes and add any spices you want to include. Stir well so that everything is mixed. Place the Dutch oven on the stove over low heat. You don’t want the temperature to be too high or the sauce will burn.
Is a Dutch Oven Good For Making Tomato Sauce?
Like we said, you can make tomato sauce in a Dutch oven. But it isn’t the most convenient thing in the world. You really have to stir the sauce constantly. The high sides of the Dutch oven will catch and drip the sauce, but you need to move it around. If you leave it at the bottom, it will burn. The high sides and thick bottom of the Dutch oven are actually a disadvantage when making tomato sauce. You need the sauce to be thin so it will be heated evenly.
Cast Iron vs. Aluminum
Cast iron is one of the most popular materials used to make Dutch ovens. However, some people still wonder if these are as good as aluminum. Aluminum is known for being lightweight and easy to clean. However, it is much more expensive than cast iron. It’s not as durable or sturdy, either. You also have to be extra careful when using it so that you don’t scratch the aluminum. Cast iron is heavier and bulkier, but it’s much sturdier. It will last for decades and can be used to cook almost anything. Plus, it can be used outdoors, too. While aluminum is lightweight and easy to clean, cast iron is the same but much sturdier. Aluminum will scratch easily and may even start to break down over time.
How to Make Tomato Sauce in a Dutch Oven
As we have mentioned, you have to stir the sauce constantly. This is annoying and time-consuming, but it’s the only way to get consistent results. First, you need to decide what type of tomato sauce you want. Do you want a basic tomato sauce with just tomatoes, garlic, and salt? Or do you want a spicy tomato sauce with celery, onions, cayenne pepper, etc.? Once you’ve figured that out, you must make sure your Dutch oven is clean. You don’t want any leftover food particles in your sauce. Next, you should chop the vegetables and herbs. This will be easier than trying to puree them whole. Put the chopped vegetables and herbs into the Dutch oven. Add the tomatoes and add any spices you want to include. Stir well so that everything is mixed. Place the Dutch oven on the stove over low heat. You don’t want the temperature to be too high or the sauce will burn.
Conclusions
You can make tomato sauce in a Dutch oven, but it’s going to be a challenge. The high sides and thick bottom of the pot make it difficult to stir the sauce. Aluminum Dutch ovens are lighter and easier to stir. However, they are also more expensive. Cast iron is cheaper and sturdier, making it a better choice overall. If you use a cast iron Dutch oven, be sure to season it before using for the first time. This will allow you to use the Dutch oven for many different dishes in the future.