Grocery
Fancy Select Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated product made from ripe tomatoes that have been cooked down and reduced to a thick paste. It is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, providing a deep, rich tomato flavor and color. The process of cooking and reducing the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and umami. It is typically sold in cans or tubes.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that forms the flavor base for countless dishes. It adds depth and complexity to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To use tomato paste, you can often sauté it briefly in oil before adding other ingredients. This process, known as 'blooming' or 'toasting,' helps to deepen its flavor and reduce any raw, acidic notes. It is commonly added early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to meld with other ingredients. For a smoother texture in sauces, it can be whisked with a little liquid before incorporation. It is also a key ingredient in many slow-cooked dishes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is significantly thicker and more concentrated. This means it delivers a more intense tomato flavor with less liquid, making it ideal for enriching dishes without watering them down. Its reduced water content also contributes to a richer mouthfeel.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use tomato paste to build foundational flavors in their cooking.
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 ice cube trays for easy, pre-measured additions to future meals.