Hannaford · 29 oz
Hannaford Tomato Puree
What it is
This is a smooth, thick puree made from cooked and strained tomatoes. It is a staple ingredient for many dishes, providing a concentrated tomato flavor without the texture of diced or whole tomatoes. The puree is typically seasoned lightly, allowing it to blend seamlessly into various recipes. It offers a rich base for sauces, soups, and stews, contributing body and depth of flavor. The consistency is finer than crushed tomatoes but not as liquid as tomato juice.
How people cook with it
Tomato puree is a versatile ingredient that forms the foundation of many savory dishes.
- Sauce bases
- Soup starters
- Stew thickeners
- Marinades
Tomato puree is excellent for creating smooth sauces for pasta or pizza. It can be simmered with herbs, garlic, and onions to build flavor for dishes like bolognese or marinara. In soups and stews, it adds body and a rich tomato essence, blending well with other vegetables and meats. It can also be used as a base for chili or as a component in braising liquids for meats. Its smooth texture makes it ideal for recipes where a uniform consistency is desired.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike diced tomatoes, tomato puree is fully processed into a smooth consistency, offering a different texture and mouthfeel. It is thicker and more concentrated than tomato sauce, which often contains added spices and sweeteners. Crushed tomatoes have a chunkier texture, while puree is completely smooth.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use tomato puree to add depth and color to their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused tomato puree to a clean, airtight container. Refrigerate and use within a few days for best quality. It can also be frozen in portions for longer storage, ensuring you always have this essential ingredient on hand.