Del Monte
Del Monte Grown Good Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated paste made from ripe tomatoes, carefully processed to remove most of the water content. It offers a deep, rich tomato flavor that is more intense than crushed or diced tomatoes. The paste is smooth and thick, making it a versatile ingredient for building layers of flavor in various dishes. It is a pantry staple for many home cooks.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient used to enhance the taste of many savory meals. It adds depth and a pleasant tang to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To unlock its full flavor, it is often recommended to cook tomato paste before adding other liquids. Sautéing it briefly in a bit of oil or butter can mellow its raw taste and deepen its sweetness. This step is crucial for developing a rich foundation for dishes like pasta sauces, chilis, and braises. It can also be stirred into gravies or used to add color and body to casseroles. A little goes a long way due to its concentrated nature.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike diced or crushed tomatoes, tomato paste has a significantly reduced water content, resulting in a much more concentrated flavor. This makes it ideal for thickening sauces and imparting a robust tomato essence without adding excess liquid. Its smooth texture also contributes to a more refined finish in cooked dishes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add depth and richness to their everyday meals will find this ingredient useful.
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 for easy, pre-measured additions to future recipes.