Goya · 33 g
Goya Tomato Paste, 33 g
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 texture. It is made from ripe tomatoes that have been processed and reduced. This paste is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, providing a foundational tomato taste and color to dishes. It is a pantry staple for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to deepen the flavor of sauces, soups, and stews. It adds a concentrated tomato essence to many savory preparations.
- Sauce base
- Soup enhancer
- Stew thickener
- Marinade component
To use tomato paste, you can sauté it in a bit of oil or fat at the beginning of cooking. This process, known as 'blooming,' helps to develop its flavor and reduce any raw, metallic taste. It can then be added to your cooking liquid, such as broth or water, to form the base of a sauce or soup. It is also commonly stirred into stews and braises to add depth and a rich tomato character. A small amount can significantly impact the overall taste profile of a dish.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is much more concentrated. This means it has a more intense tomato flavor and a thicker consistency. It provides a powerful tomato punch without adding a lot of liquid to a dish, making it ideal for recipes where a robust tomato taste is desired.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use tomato paste to build complex flavors in a wide variety of dishes.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container or cover the original can tightly. Refrigerate the paste. It can also be frozen in small portions, such as in ice cube trays, for convenient future use. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality for an extended period.