Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a thick, rich paste made from tomatoes that have been cooked down to remove most of their water content. It is a concentrated form of tomato flavor, offering a deep, savory taste that can significantly enhance the complexity of many dishes. Its smooth texture makes it easy to incorporate into sauces, soups, and stews, providing a foundational tomato essence without adding excess liquid. It is a pantry staple for cooks seeking intense tomato flavor.
How people cook with it
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used to deepen and enrich the flavor profile of a wide array of savory dishes.
- Base for sauces
- Thickener for stews
- Flavor enhancer for soups
- Marinade component
To unlock its full flavor potential, it is often beneficial to cook tomato paste briefly before adding other ingredients. Sautéing it in a bit of oil or butter for a minute or two can mellow its raw taste and bring out its inherent sweetness and umami. This step is particularly effective when starting a sauce or stew. It can then be combined with liquids like broth, wine, or water, and simmered to meld its concentrated flavor with the other components of the dish. It is also excellent stirred into pan drippings to create a rich gravy.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste has a much higher concentration of tomato solids due to the removal of water. This results in a more intense, less acidic flavor and a thicker consistency, making it ideal for adding depth without altering the liquid balance of a recipe.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on tomato paste to build robust flavor in their culinary creations.
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, freeze portions in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.