Hunt's
Hunt's Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water. It is a thick, rich paste that provides a deep tomato flavor to dishes. It is made from ripe tomatoes and is a pantry staple for many home cooks. The paste is processed to ensure a smooth texture and consistent flavor.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient in many savory recipes. It adds depth and richness to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Soup thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To use tomato paste, you can add it directly to your cooking. Often, it is sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic at the beginning of a recipe to deepen its flavor. This process, called blooming, helps to mellow its raw taste and bring out its sweetness. It can be stirred into simmering sauces, gravies, or braises to impart a concentrated tomato essence and add body. A small amount can significantly boost the overall flavor profile of a dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is much more concentrated. This means it has a more intense tomato flavor and a thicker consistency. It is not meant to be eaten on its own but rather as a potent flavor builder within other dishes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add a robust tomato flavor to their meals will find this ingredient 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.