What did the Romans use instead of tomato sauce?

The Romans didn't use tomato sauce because tomatoes weren't introduced to Europe until after the Columbian Exchange in the 16th century!

Instead, the Romans used various sauces based on ingredients they had access to, including:

* Garum: A fermented fish sauce that was a staple condiment in Roman cuisine.

* Liquamen: Similar to garum, but made from meat instead of fish.

* Moretum: A paste made from herbs, cheese, and sometimes garlic, used as a condiment or spread.

* Mustard: They used mustard, often mixed with vinegar or honey, as a condiment.

* Vinegar: Vinegar was a common cooking ingredient, often used to create a tangy flavor in sauces and marinades.

* Olive oil: Olive oil was used extensively in cooking and as a base for sauces.

While they didn't have tomato sauce, the Romans were known for their sophisticated culinary skills and developed a wide range of sauces to enhance their dishes!