Weis · 33 g
Weis 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 typically sold in small cans or tubes. The process of cooking down the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and umami. It is a fundamental ingredient in many savory dishes, providing a foundational tomato taste and color.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to deepen the flavor of many cooked dishes. It adds richness and body to sauces and stews.
- Sauce base
- Stew thickener
- Marinade component
- Flavor enhancer
To use tomato paste, you can sauté it in a bit of oil before adding other ingredients. This process, known as 'blooming,' helps to mellow its raw flavor and bring out its sweetness. It is often added early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to meld with other ingredients. It can be stirred into simmering sauces, soups, or stews. A small amount can significantly impact the overall taste of a dish, providing a concentrated tomato essence.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste is much more concentrated. It has a significantly thicker texture and a more intense, cooked tomato flavor. This makes it ideal for adding depth without adding a lot of liquid to a dish. It is not meant to be eaten on its own but rather as a building block for flavor.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use tomato paste to build complex flavor profiles in their cooking.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container or cover the original can tightly. Refrigerate and use within a few days. Some people freeze leftover paste in small portions, like ice cubes, for later use.