This tomato sauce is a hit on the Internet: make it without cooking

A new method for preserving tomatoes has gained popularity online, allowing users to store their flavor without cooking. The technique, dubbed "lena tomato sauce," involves blending ripe tomatoes into a neutral base that can later be transformed into various dishes such as pasta sauces, soups, risotto, or curries. This approach has been embraced by social media communities who seek quick and easy recipes, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The process begins with selecting fully ripe, healthy, and aromatic tomatoes, preferably meaty varieties with fewer seeds and juice, such as plum or Roma tomatoes. These are thoroughly washed, stemmed, and cut into larger pieces, removing any damaged parts. The tomatoes are then blended in batches until smooth, without adding water, salt, oil, garlic, or herbs. This ensures the base remains neutral and adaptable for future use. Once blended, the puree is poured into a clean container with a spout near the bottom and left to rest in the refrigerator overnight, approximately 8 to 12 hours. The following day, the liquid is slowly drained through the spout until the thicker consistency begins to emerge. At this point, the spout is closed to retain the thickened base. This thick mixture is then divided into smaller portions and packed into freezer bags or containers suitable for freezing. As much air as possible is removed from the bags before sealing them flat to ensure they freeze quickly and are easier to handle later. Each portion should be labeled with its contents and date before being frozen immediately. If a container with a spout is unavailable, a tall, narrow container can be used instead, and the thick part can be carefully scooped out the next day using a ladle. This preserved tomato base is best suited for use in quantities typically needed for one dish. When preparing a quick sauce, olive oil is heated with garlic or onions, followed by the thawed tomato base, which is cooked until it thickens and flavors meld together. Salt and herbs such as basil, oregano, chili, or others are added afterward. The preserved base can be incorporated directly into minestrone, gazpacho, vegetable or meat stews, pizza sauces, stuffed peppers, curries, or shakshuka. Because it is not seasoned before freezing, it pairs well with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian-inspired dishes alike. It is important to note that this method does not produce a shelf-stable product suitable for storage at room temperature. The unheated nature of the tomatoes means they must be kept refrigerated or frozen rather than stored in jars on a shelf. The clear liquid collected at the bottom of the container during draining is also valuable. It contains a fresh, intense tomato flavor and can be used as a substitute for broth in recipes such as risotto, couscous, bulgur, or other grains. It can also be added to gazpacho, vegetable soup, or sauces to adjust consistency in stews. This innovative preservation technique highlights the growing trend of simplifying traditional recipes through modern methods, offering convenience without compromising flavor versatility. The approach allows individuals to capture the essence of ripe tomatoes for future culinary creations while minimizing preparation time and effort.