Hunt's
Hunt's Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes, cooked down to remove most of the water. It has a deep, rich tomato flavor and a thick consistency. It is made from ripe tomatoes that have been carefully processed to create a smooth, vibrant paste. This product is a pantry staple for many home cooks, providing a foundational tomato flavor to a wide range of dishes.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and richness to many savory preparations.
- Sauces and gravies
- Soups and stews
- Marinades
- Dips and spreads
You can use tomato paste as a flavor base for many dishes. It's often sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic at the beginning of cooking to deepen its flavor. It can be stirred into simmering sauces, soups, and stews to add body and a concentrated tomato taste. For marinades, it helps to tenderize meats and impart a rich color. It can also be mixed with other ingredients to create flavorful dips or spreads.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to diced tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is much thicker and more concentrated. This means it delivers a more intense tomato flavor without adding a lot of liquid to a dish. Its cooking process also develops a deeper, more complex tomato taste than raw or lightly processed tomatoes.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to enhance the flavor and color of their savory dishes will find this ingredient useful.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the remaining paste in an ice cube tray, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.