Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a thick, rich paste made from cooked, reduced tomatoes. It has a deep, intense tomato flavor and a smooth texture. The process of cooking down the tomatoes removes a significant amount of water, concentrating the natural sweetness and umami of the fruit. It is a fundamental ingredient in many savory dishes, providing a foundational tomato essence.
How people cook with it
It is often used to deepen the flavor of sauces and stews. A small amount can add significant complexity to a dish.
- Sauce base
- Stew thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To incorporate this paste into your cooking, you can start by sautéing it in a bit of oil or butter for a minute or two. This process, often called 'blooming,' helps to mellow its raw flavor and release its full aroma. It is then typically added to other ingredients like onions, garlic, or meats before liquids are introduced. It blends seamlessly into broths, stocks, and other liquid bases, dissolving to distribute its concentrated flavor throughout the dish. It is a key component for building rich, layered tastes in a variety of cuisines.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike diced or crushed tomatoes, this paste has had most of its water removed. This results in a much more concentrated flavor and a thicker consistency. It provides a deeper, more robust tomato taste without adding significant liquid to a dish, making it ideal for intensifying flavor profiles.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use this ingredient to build foundational flavors in their savory creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused 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, measured additions to future recipes.