Authentic Pizza Sauce

In the Signature Style of Chef Muassab Pasha

1. Definition

Pizza Sauce is a flavorful, herb-infused tomato base used as the essential foundation for pizzas.

It is defined by:

Rich, concentrated tomato flavor

Balanced sweetness and acidity

Aromatic herbs and spices for depth

Smooth, spreadable consistency

Unlike canned sauces, this homemade version is slow-cooked to intensify flavor, allowing the herbs and spices to blend perfectly while maintaining a vibrant tomato base. In Chef Muassab Pasha’s approach, every spice and herb is measured to enhance the final pizza experience without overpowering the crust or toppings.

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2. History

Tomato-based sauces have been used in Italian cooking since the 16th century, but pizza as we know it today popularized the pizza sauce in Naples during the late 18th century.

The modern pizza sauce evolved to balance sweetness, acidity, and spice, making it versatile for different styles of pizza, from Neapolitan to American deep-dish.

Today, homemade pizza sauces are celebrated globally for their freshness and authenticity, allowing chefs to control flavor intensity, spice balance, and texture.

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3. Recipe

Yield: ~2 cups (≈500 grams)
Pan / Jar Size: Small saucepan and airtight jar

Ingredients

Tomato Puree( 480 g) 2 cups
Sugar (8 g) 2 tsp
Dried Basil (1 g) 1 tsp
Dried Oregano (1 g) 1 tsp
Crushed Dry Coriander (1 g) 1 tsp
Carom Seeds (Ajwain) (0.5 g) ½ tsp
Fennel Powder (1.5 g) 1½ tsp
Garlic Powder (1.5 g) 1½ tsp
Onion Powder (1.5 g) 1½ tsp
Salt (2.5 g) ½ tsp
Crushed Red Chili (3 g) 3 tsp
Olive Oil (40 g) 3 tbsp

4. Method

1. In a small bowl, combine tomato puree, sugar, dried basil, oregano, crushed coriander, ajwain, fennel powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and crushed red chili. Mix well and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.

3. Add the prepared tomato-herb mixture to the pan.

4. Simmer gently on low flame for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens but remains smooth.

5. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.

6. Transfer into an airtight jar and store in the refrigerator.

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Storage Guidelines

Refrigeration: Up to 1 month in an airtight container. Stir before use.

Tips:

For best results, always use fresh tomato puree.

Maintain low heat while simmering to prevent burning and preserve flavors.

Avoid substituting the listed powders with liquids or blends — follow the recipe exactly for authentic flavor.