A lot of other recipes use different types of tomato to get this project started. Crushed Tomato in a can is the one to use as all the work has been already done for you. If you use something else you should both Blend and then strain in through a sieve. This is the all pro wack it in and use it recipe! Literally, you could use it right away in a pinch. It will taste better after an hour on the stove but who am I to tell you what to do.