Fresh Stewed Tomatoes

Ingredients

• 1.75 cups Fresh Tomatoes (Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes)
• 1 slice Onion (About 1/4 inch thick)
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.125 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 0.0625 teaspoon Baking Soda (Optional, if tomatoes are very acidic)

Instructions

1. 1In a saucepan, combine the fresh stewed tomatoes and onion slice. Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. 2Remove from heat and rub the tomato mixture through a strainer or food mill to remove seeds and skins. Discard the solids.
3. 3In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and slightly browned. This is called a roux. For a redder tomato color, brown the butter and flour more.
4. 4Gradually whisk the strained tomatoes into the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the salt and pepper. If the tomatoes are very acidic, add a pinch of baking soda to neutralize the acidity.
5. 5Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Serve warm.