Clasico
Clasico Tomato Paste
What it is
Clasico Tomato Paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, cooked down to remove most of their water content. This process intensifies the tomato flavor and creates a thick, rich paste. It is a fundamental ingredient in many savory dishes, providing a deep tomato base and a slightly sweet, tangy note. The paste is typically sold in small cans, making it easy to add a concentrated burst of tomato flavor to recipes without adding excess liquid.
How people cook with it
This versatile ingredient forms the flavor foundation for countless cooked dishes.
- Sauces
- Soups
- Stews
- Marinades
To use Clasico Tomato Paste, you typically start by sautéing it in a bit of oil or butter over medium heat for a minute or two. This step, called 'blooming,' helps to deepen its flavor and reduce any raw tomato taste. It's then incorporated into the main body of a dish, such as a simmering sauce, a hearty stew, or a flavorful soup base. It can also be whisked into marinades or used to add richness to pan sauces. A little goes a long way due to its concentrated nature.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is significantly thicker and more intensely flavored. It has a much lower water content, which means it adds a concentrated tomato essence without diluting other ingredients. This makes it ideal for building deep, complex flavors in dishes where a strong tomato presence is desired.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs rely on this ingredient to build robust flavor profiles.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container or a resealable bag. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the remaining paste in tablespoon-sized portions on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.