Grocery
Rich Tomato Paste Concentrate
What it is
This is a highly concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. It results in a thick, intensely flavored paste that forms the base for many savory dishes. Its deep red color indicates a robust tomato flavor. It is typically sold in small cans or tubes for convenient use in various culinary applications.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a fundamental ingredient for building deep flavor in sauces and stews. It adds a concentrated tomato essence that fresh or canned tomatoes might not achieve on their own.
- Sauce bases
- Stew thickeners
- Marinades
- Flavor boosters
To use tomato paste effectively, it's often recommended to cook it briefly in a bit of oil before adding other liquids. This process, known as 'blooming' or 'toasting' the paste, helps to deepen its flavor and reduce any raw, metallic taste. It can then be incorporated into soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauces, and braises. A small amount can significantly enhance the overall taste profile of a dish, adding a rich, umami depth that complements other ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike diced or crushed tomatoes, tomato paste has had most of its water evaporated. This makes it much more concentrated in flavor and color. It is also significantly thicker, allowing it to act as a binder and enrich the texture of dishes without adding excess liquid.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use tomato paste to elevate the depth of flavor in their cooking.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can also be frozen in small portions, such as tablespoon-sized dollops on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for easy future use. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality for an extended period.