Amy's · 30 g
Amy's Organic Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated paste made from organic tomatoes. It is a fundamental ingredient used to deepen the flavor of many dishes. The paste is cooked down to remove excess water, resulting in a rich, intense tomato taste. It is a pantry staple for home cooks looking to add a robust tomato base to their meals. The organic certification indicates the tomatoes were grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and richness to a wide range of savory recipes.
- Sauce bases
- Soups and stews
- Marinades
- Braised meats
To use, you can sauté the tomato paste in a bit of oil or butter before adding other ingredients. This process, called blooming, helps to mellow its sharp flavor and enhance its sweetness. It is often added early in the cooking process to build a foundational flavor for dishes like pasta sauces, chili, or stews. You can also stir it into broths or gravies to add color and a concentrated tomato essence. A small amount can significantly impact the overall taste profile of a dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is much more concentrated. This means it has a more intense, less watery tomato flavor. It provides a thicker texture and a deeper, richer color than other tomato products. Its concentrated nature makes it ideal for building complex flavor profiles without adding excess liquid to a dish.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use tomato paste to enhance the flavor of their culinary 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 of the paste in an ice cube tray; once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.