Grocery
Concentrated Italian Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a highly concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. It's a deep red paste with an intense, rich tomato flavor. The process of cooking down the tomatoes deepens their natural sweetness and creates a more complex taste profile. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, prized for its ability to add depth and body to dishes.
How people cook with it
This ingredient is perfect for building foundational flavors in a wide variety of savory dishes. It adds a concentrated tomato essence that is hard to replicate with fresh tomatoes alone.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade enhancer
- Flavor booster
To use, you typically sauté the paste in a bit of oil over medium heat for a minute or two. This step, known as 'blooming,' helps to unlock its full flavor potential and reduce any raw, acidic notes. It can then be incorporated into sauces, stews, braises, or used as a base for pizza sauce. It blends seamlessly into liquids, providing a smooth texture and a robust tomato taste that enriches the overall dish. A little goes a long way due to its concentrated nature.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, this paste has had almost all its water removed, resulting in a much more intense and pure tomato flavor. Its thick consistency also means it acts as a natural thickener for sauces and stews, adding body without diluting the taste.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike reach for this ingredient to deepen the flavor of their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused paste to an airtight container or cover the original can tightly. Refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. It can also be stored in a cool, dark pantry if unopened.