Contadina
Contadina Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes that have been cooked down to remove most of their water content. It is a thick, rich paste that provides a deep tomato flavor to dishes. The process of cooking down the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and umami qualities, making it a powerful flavor enhancer. It is typically sold in cans or tubes.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient in many cuisines, adding depth and color to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor booster
To use tomato paste, you can sauté it in a bit of oil or butter before adding other ingredients. This step, known as 'blooming' or 'toasting,' helps to mellow its raw, acidic flavor and deepen its sweetness. It can be added early in the cooking process to build a complex flavor profile for dishes like pasta sauces, chili, or braised meats. It also works well stirred into gravies or used as a base for homemade ketchup.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste is significantly thicker and more concentrated. This means it imparts a much more intense tomato flavor and color with less liquid. It is not meant to be eaten on its own but rather as a building block for other flavors.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use tomato paste to enhance the flavor of their savory dishes.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container or cover the original can tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. It can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about a week.