Napoleon · 30 g
Napoleon Tomato Paste, 30g
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. It has a deep, rich flavor and a thick texture. The small, single-serving size is convenient for recipes that only require a small amount, preventing waste. It is typically made from ripe tomatoes that have been cooked and then strained to remove seeds and skins.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a foundational ingredient in many savory dishes. It adds depth and a concentrated tomato flavor to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Sauce base
- Flavor enhancer
- Thickening agent
- Marinade component
To incorporate tomato paste into your cooking, you can often start by sautéing it in a bit of oil or butter before adding other ingredients. This process, known as 'blooming,' helps to deepen its flavor and reduce any raw, acidic notes. It can then be added to simmering sauces, soups, stews, or braises. It blends well with aromatics like onions and garlic, and its concentrated nature means a little goes a long way in building a robust flavor profile for your dishes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste is significantly more concentrated. This means it offers a more intense tomato flavor and a thicker consistency. It lacks the liquid and larger pieces found in other tomato products, making it ideal for enriching sauces without adding excess moisture.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use tomato paste to build complex flavors in their recipes.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any unused tomato paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent spoilage and maintain quality, it's best to transfer it to a small glass jar or cover the original can tightly with plastic wrap. It can typically be kept for about a week.