Grocery
Del Monte Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes, cooked down to remove most of the water. It has a deep, rich tomato flavor and a thick consistency. It is a staple ingredient in many kitchens, providing a foundational taste to a wide variety of dishes. The paste is made from ripe tomatoes and is a convenient way to add intense tomato flavor without adding significant liquid.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to deepen and enrich the flavor of many savory dishes. It forms the base for sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To use, simply spoon the desired amount into your cooking. It's often sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic at the beginning of a recipe to bloom its flavor. This process helps to mellow its raw taste and bring out its sweetness. It can also be stirred directly into simmering liquids like broths or stews to add depth and body. A small amount can significantly impact the overall taste profile of a dish, making it a powerful ingredient for building complex flavors.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is much thicker and more concentrated. This means it delivers a more intense tomato flavor with less liquid. It's not meant to be eaten on its own but rather as a flavor builder within other recipes.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use tomato paste to add robust tomato flavor to their creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in an ice cube tray; once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.