Grocery
Concentrated Tomato Paste
What it is
This is a concentrated form of tomatoes that has been cooked down to remove most of its water content. It is a rich, deep red paste with an intense tomato flavor. The process of cooking and concentrating the tomatoes deepens their natural sweetness and umami. It is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, providing a foundational flavor and color to a wide variety of dishes.
How people cook with it
This ingredient is a versatile pantry staple used to add depth and richness to sauces, soups, and stews.
- Flavor base for sauces
- Thickener for stews
- Color enhancer for dishes
- Marinade component
To use, it is often sautéed with aromatics like onions and garlic to bloom its flavor before adding liquids. It can be stirred directly into simmering liquids to thicken and enrich them. For a smoother texture, it can be whisked with a little water or broth to create a more fluid base. Its concentrated nature means a small amount can significantly impact the taste and color of a dish, so it is typically added gradually until the desired flavor profile is achieved.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, tomato paste is significantly thicker and more intensely flavored due to the extensive reduction process. This concentration makes it a powerful flavor enhancer, providing a deeper, more complex tomato taste than less processed forms.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike rely on this ingredient for its ability to build robust flavors.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any remaining paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent spoilage and maintain quality, consider transferring it to a small jar or covering the surface directly with plastic wrap before sealing the lid. It can also be frozen in small portions for longer storage.