Tomato-fennel sauce

1 batch

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
1mediumOnion(s), coarsely chopped
1mediumOnion(s), finely chopped
4Garlic clove(s) coarsely chopped
12mediumsPlum tomatoes
cupCilantro, coarsely chopped plus whole sprigs for garnish
1tablespoonOlive oil
1mediumFennel bulb trimmed, quartered cored and finely chopped
teaspoonSalt

Directions

1. Preheat the broiler. Scatter the chopped onion and garlic in a large roasting pan. Spread the tomatoes on top and broil for about 20 minutes, turning the tomatoes every 5 minutes, until lightly charred all over. Let cool.

2. Discard any large pieces of excessively charred skin from the tomatoes. Transfer the broiled vegetables to a blender or food processor, add the chopped cilantro and blend until smooth.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and the fennel and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until lightly browned and tender, about 8 minutes. Stir in the pureed tomato and salt.

Food and Wine September 1995

Submitted By DIANE LAZARUS On 09-29-95