Barbara's Chunky Tomato Sauce

Barbara's Chunky Tomato Sauce
healthy recipe for diabetics yahoo group

4 ripe tomatoes -- about 2 1/2 pounds, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped, with juices
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion -- finely chopped
3 shallots -- finely chopped
4 garlic cloves -- thinly sliced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
5 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs -- including basil, oregano, and/or flat-leaf parsley
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes -- to 1/2 teaspoon
salt and freshly ground black pepper

Peel and seed the tomatoes, working over a bowl and sieve to catch the juices. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick frying pan. Add the onion and cook over medium-low heat until a rich golden brown, about 6 to 10 minutes. Reduce th heat slightly, add the shallots and garlic, and cook for 2 minutes, or until golden brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and bring to a boil. Add the tomatoes with their juices and tomato paste, brown sugar, herbs, pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Gently simmer the sauce until thick and richly flavored, 10 to 15 minutes, stirring often with a wooden spoon. Correct the seasonings, adding salt, brown sugar, or vinegar to taste.

Makes 3 to 4 cups (6 to 8 one-half cup servings).