Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a highly concentrated form of tomatoes that have been cooked down to remove most of their water content. The process intensifies the natural tomato flavor and creates a thick, rich paste. It is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, providing a deep, savory tomato base for a wide variety of dishes. Its concentrated nature means a little goes a long way in adding depth and color.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to build flavor in sauces, soups, and stews. It adds a concentrated tomato essence that fresh or canned tomatoes might not achieve on their own.
- Base for pasta sauces
- Thickener for stews
- Flavor enhancer for soups
- Marinade component
To use, you typically sauté the tomato paste in a bit of oil or fat at the beginning of cooking. This step, known as 'blooming' or 'toasting,' helps to mellow its raw flavor and deepen its sweetness. It can then be incorporated into the liquid base of your dish, such as broth or wine, allowing it to dissolve and distribute its rich flavor throughout. It is often simmered for a period to fully integrate its taste into the final product.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike diced or crushed tomatoes, tomato paste has had nearly all its water removed, resulting in a much more intense and pure tomato flavor. Its thick texture also acts as a natural thickener, contributing body to dishes in a way that less concentrated tomato products cannot. This concentration makes it ideal for adding a robust tomato character without adding excess liquid.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on this ingredient to add authentic tomato flavor to 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 several weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in ice cube trays; once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.