Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a thick, rich paste made from cooked and concentrated tomatoes. It undergoes a process where the water content is significantly reduced, resulting in a deep flavor and intense color. The tomatoes are typically ripe and pureed before being simmered down to achieve its characteristic dense consistency. It is a versatile ingredient used to add depth and body to a wide range of dishes.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient in many cuisines, providing a concentrated tomato flavor that can transform sauces, soups, and stews.
- Enriching pasta sauces
- Deepening flavor in stews
- Adding body to soups
- Flavoring braised meats
To use, simply add a spoonful or two to your cooking. It can be sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic at the beginning of a recipe to bloom its flavor, or stirred into simmering liquids to build complexity. For a richer taste, some cooks like to caramelize it slightly in the pan before adding other ingredients. It dissolves easily, integrating seamlessly into broths, gravies, and marinades, providing a concentrated tomato essence without adding excess liquid.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste has had most of its water removed. This makes it much more concentrated in flavor and color. It offers a deeper, more intense tomato taste than tomato sauce or purees, and it thickens dishes more effectively due to its reduced moisture content.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on it to impart a robust tomato foundation to their 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 in ice cube trays for easy, pre-measured additions to future meals.