Preheat a 2-quart pot over medium-low heat and add the oil.
Sauté the onion in the oil for about 5 minutes, until slightly browned.
Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the brown sugar and cook for about 1 minute, until the sugar is dissolved and coats all the onions.
Mix in the thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Add the tomatoes and salt and stir everything together.
Cover the pot, leaving a little gap for steam to escape, and cook for 15 minutes.
Taste for seasoning and serve.
