Tomato Sauce

Directions

1. 1
   Put the butter and oil in a pan and add the shallots, thyme, bay leaf, and garlic.
2. 2
   Sweat over a low heat until the shallots are softened and translucent.
3. 3
   Add the tomatoes, paste, sugar, and tomato juice, if using.
4. 4
   Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes.
5. 5
   Use a ladle to press the sauce through a fine mesh strainer.
6. 6
   Season to taste.
7. 7
   Variation: Roasted Tomato Sauce.
8. 8
   Use only fresh tomatoes for this.
9. 9
   Cut the tomatoes in half, rub each with a little of the garlic, and place on a baking tray.
10. 10
    Drizzle the olive oil over them and then sprinkle the thyme leaves on top.
11. 11
    Season lightly with salt and pepper and roast in a preheated 250 degree F oven for 40 minutes, until the tomatoes are very soft.
12. 12
    Add the roasted tomatoes to the recipe as in step 2 of the basic recipe and proceed as described there.