Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a thick, rich paste made from tomatoes that have been cooked down to remove most of their water content. It has a deep, concentrated tomato flavor that is more intense than fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes. The process of cooking and reducing the tomatoes also deepens their color, giving this paste a vibrant red hue. It is a staple ingredient in many cuisines for its ability to add a robust tomato base to dishes.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to build flavor in a wide range of savory dishes. It forms the foundation for many sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Braising liquid enhancer
To use tomato paste effectively, it is often best to sauté it in a bit of oil or fat for a minute or two before adding other liquids. This process, called 'blooming,' helps to mellow its raw, slightly metallic taste and brings out its full, sweet, and savory flavor. It can then be incorporated into your cooking as a base for sauces, added to soups and stews for depth, or mixed into marinades to impart a rich tomato essence. A small amount can significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of a dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste has a much higher concentration of tomato solids and a significantly reduced water content. This makes it a potent flavor enhancer and a natural thickener. Its intensity means a little goes a long way compared to other tomato products.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on tomato paste to add depth and richness to their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week, or for longer storage, freeze it in small portions, such as in ice cube trays, for easy use in future recipes. Proper storage helps maintain its concentrated flavor.