Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce

This sauce is delicious and easy.  It goes well with all types of pasta and is particularly good with mussels steamed open in white wine.

INGREDIENTS:
1.5kg firm, ripe tomatoes
2 tbs olive oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tsp sugar
¼ cup of shredded basil leaves
salt & ground black pepper
chilli to taste (optional)

METHOD:
Cut a small cross into the base of each tomatoes and place in a large bowl.

Cover with boiling water, leave for 1 minute, drain and refresh in cold water.

Peel and roughly chop tomatoes.

Place oil, garlic and onion into a large saucepan and stir over medium heat for 5 minutes or until onion is soft.

Stir in tomatoes and sugar. Bring to the boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring often, for 25-30 minutes or until sauce is thick.

Puree or blend the sauce to desired consistency. Stir in fresh basil and salt and pepper to taste

 Provided by S.Christopher