What is tram sauce made of?

Tram sauce is typically made from a blend of olive oil, garlic, onion or shallot, tomato paste, vinegar, soy sauce or tamari, sweetener (like brown sugar or maple syrup), and warming spices such as paprika and cumin. Some variations include fresh herbs, lemon juice, or optional add-ins like tahini or anchovy paste to enhance depth and texture.

How do you make tram sauce at home?

To make tram sauce at home, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until softened, then stir in tomato paste and toast with spices. Pour in the vinegar and soy sauce or tamari, then stir in a small amount of sugar or syrup for depth. Simmer the mixture to blend the flavors, then optionally blend for a smoother finish. Finish the sauce with chopped parsley or cilantro to add a fresh, vibrant note.

What does tram sauce taste like?

Tram sauce has a rich, layered flavor profile. It offers a bold, savory flavor with tangy notes, balanced by mild sweetness and a hint of heat.. Depending on your ingredients, it can have smoky, earthy, or even citrusy notes. The result is a deeply satisfying sauce that complements a wide range of dishes—from proteins to vegetables and grains.

Is tram sauce vegetarian?

Yes, tram sauce is vegetarian—as long as you avoid using anchovy paste. Most versions rely on plant-based ingredients like garlic, herbs, and spices for depth of flavor. To ensure it remains fully vegetarian or vegan, use tamari instead of soy sauce (if gluten is a concern) and skip any animal-derived additions.

Tram Sauce Recipe: Bold, Tangy & Easy Homemade Sauce

Name: Tram Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Global Fusion
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion or shallot, finely diced; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1 pinch chili flakes; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1–2 tbsp red wine or apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup; 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Description

This bold, savory tram sauce is loaded with tangy flavor and warm spices—perfect for grain bowls, roasted veggies, wraps, and more. Made in under 20 minutes, it’s a pantry-friendly condiment you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion or shallot, finely diced

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1 pinch chili flakes

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

1–2 tbsp red wine or apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup

1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium pan over moderate heat.

2. Add garlic and onion; sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.

3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Add paprika, cumin, chili flakes, and black pepper; toast for 30 seconds.

5. Pour in vinegar and soy sauce or tamari, scraping the pan to deglaze.

6. Stir in sugar or syrup to balance the acidity.

7. Reduce heat and let sauce simmer for 5 minutes.

8. Blend for smooth consistency if desired.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning.

10. Stir in chopped herbs, cool slightly, and store in a clean jar.

Notes

Optional add-ins include lemon juice, tahini, anchovy paste (omit for vegetarian), or smoked paprika for depth.

Stores well in the fridge for up to 7 days. Flavor intensifies over time.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauces & Condiments
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Global Fusion