Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. It has a deep red color and a rich, intense tomato flavor. The process of cooking down the tomatoes also breaks down the cell walls, making the flavor more potent and the texture smoother. It is a pantry staple for many home cooks.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient used to add depth and richness to a wide variety of dishes. Its concentrated flavor makes it a powerful enhancer.
- Sauce base
- Flavor enhancer
- Thickening agent
- Marinade component
To use tomato paste effectively, it is often best to sauté it in a bit of oil or fat before adding other liquids. This process, known as 'blooming,' helps to mellow its raw flavor and deepen its sweetness. It can be added early in the cooking process to build a complex flavor profile for stews, soups, and braises. It also works well stirred into pan sauces or used as a base for homemade ketchup or barbecue sauce.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is significantly more concentrated. This means it offers a much more intense tomato flavor and a thicker consistency. It is not meant to be eaten on its own but rather to enrich and deepen the taste of other ingredients in a dish.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add a robust tomato flavor to their cooking will find this product useful.
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 use in future recipes.