Natures Emporium
Natures Emporium Tomato Paste
What it is
Natures Emporium Tomato Paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. This process intensifies the natural tomato flavor and creates a thick, rich texture. It is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, providing a deep, savory base for sauces, soups, and stews. The paste is typically made from ripe, red tomatoes, carefully processed to ensure a consistent quality and flavor profile. It is a versatile pantry staple that can elevate the taste of a wide range of dishes.
How people cook with it
This concentrated tomato product is essential for building flavor in cooked dishes. It adds depth and richness where fresh tomatoes might be too watery.
- Sauce bases
- Soup thickener
- Marinades
- Braising liquids
To use tomato paste effectively, it's often beneficial to 'bloom' it first. This involves cooking the paste in a bit of oil over medium heat for a minute or two until it darkens slightly. This step caramelizes the sugars in the tomatoes, deepening their flavor and reducing any raw, acidic notes. Once bloomed, it can be added to sautéed aromatics like onions and garlic, or stirred into liquids to form the foundation of sauces, stews, and braises. Its concentrated nature means a little goes a long way in imparting intense tomato taste.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste has had most of its water removed, resulting in a much more concentrated flavor and thicker consistency. This makes it ideal for adding intense tomato essence without adding excess liquid to a dish. It's a flavor enhancer rather than a primary tomato component.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on tomato paste to add depth and complexity to their cooking.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, 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 ice cube trays; once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.