In a saucepan heat the olive oil over a medium low heat
Roughly chop the garlic, it does not need to be super fine, in fact large chunks are better so it does not burn.
Sauté for a few moments until lightly coloured and fragrant
Pour in the tomatoes, add the cinnamon and (optional )maple syrup, then leave to bubble over a medium/low heat for around 30 minutes.
Once the sauce is nicely thickened give it a good vigorous whisk to really incorporate the oil.
Enjoy!
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Notes
Yield: This recipe makes one cup of tomato sauce.
Take the time to whisk in the oil, this is what will thicken your sauce.
Once cool, you can store your homemade sauce in a clean air tight jar or air tight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Maple Syrup: Depending on the age and palate of your child the maple syrup may not be necessary. I used to make this recipe with no added sweetener but as my kids have aged and have tried commercial sauce I have found adding the maple syrup increases the kid approval level. The maple syrup therefore can be left out or substituted for honey, brown sugar or apple sauce.
Tomato Purée: I use canned tomato purée it may also be called passata or crushed sieved tomatoes. Look for tomato puree that is made with 100% tomatoes with no added salt or sugar.
Olive oil: The amount of olive oil may see quite high, however don't skimp on it as the olive oil actually aids in the thickening of the tomato ketchup.
Cinnamon: Adding cinnamon is optional, however it adds a depth of flavour and sweet notes to the sauce. I think it's much nicer with the cinnamon. Allspice or nutmeg can also be used.
Garlic: If you don't have fresh garlic this can be substituted for 1 teaspoon of jarred crushed garlic, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder.
Tips for Baby Led Weaning
This recipe is suitable for baby led weaning, it can be made without the maple syrup to reduce the sugar content.Be sure to choose tomato purée that contains no added salt or sugar, the ingredient list should only contain tomatoes.Serve the tomato ketchup with baked meatballs, carrot fries, mini egg muffins or anything really!