Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a highly concentrated form of tomatoes, simmered down to remove most of the water content. This process intensifies the natural tomato flavor and creates a thick, rich texture. It is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines, providing a deep tomato base for sauces, stews, and other savory dishes. Its concentrated nature means a little goes a long way in adding depth and color to your cooking.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to build flavor in a wide range of savory dishes. It's a staple for creating rich sauces and adding depth to braises.
- Sauce base
- Stew thickener
- Flavor enhancer
- Marinade component
To use, you can add it directly to your cooking pot when sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic to bloom its flavor. It can also be stirred into simmering sauces, soups, or stews to deepen their taste and color. For a richer flavor, some cooks like to lightly fry the paste in oil before adding other liquids. It's often the first step in building the foundation of a complex tomato-based sauce, providing a concentrated essence of tomato.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste has had most of its water removed through a long simmering process. This results in a much more intense, sweet, and savory tomato flavor. Its thick consistency also helps to thicken sauces and add body, whereas other forms of tomatoes are more liquid.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on tomato paste for its concentrated flavor and thickening properties.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the paste in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.