What to do if you don’t grow your own tomatoes for making a tomato sauce then your destine to purchase them at the local grocery. Let’s break down the various canned alternatives you have:
Whole Peeled Tomatoes, packed in tomato juice, these are by far your best choice for flavor . You will also see whole peeled tomatoes packed in puree, these are the next best thing however will the taste is a bit canny. The best canned tomatoes are San Marzano.
Diced Tomatoes, these are machine cut and the tomatoes are too firm even after cooking. Crushed Tomatoes, there are a lot of inconsistencies and variations in crushed tomatoes. So will still be a bit chunky, others will be a puree. Crushing the canned whole peeled tomatoes are a better option.
Tomato Puree, these are good options if you’re wanting to make a quick sauce. The flavor will not have the depth you get from on that has been cooking for a while.
Tomato Paste, is a versatile product. Tomato paste will help thicken sauces and stews and will add a depth of flavor.