Tomato paste
PantryTomato paste is a thick paste with a robust tomato flavor. The paste is made by cooking tomatoes for several hours to reduce their water content, straining the skins and seeds, and then further cooking the liquid to reduce it to a thick concentrate. It’s most often used to add a rich tomato flavor to a variety of dishes. Tomato paste is sometimes confused with tomato puree, however the two are different. Tomato puree has a higher water content than tomato paste and thus, a thinner consistency. Tomato puree is still slightly thicker than tomato sauce which is even thinner. In addition to the difference in consistencies, tomato paste has a much stronger tomato flavor which is why a little often goes a long way in recipes. Tomatoes are rich in umami, one of the five basic tastes. Because tomato paste is so concentrated, it helps enhance the umami flavor of food. Not only does tomato paste pack a burst of flavor, it’s also frequently used to thicken sauces, chilis, and stews. The best way to unlock tomato paste’s full flavor potential is to first caramelize it. Add a drizzle of olive oil to a pan and add some tomato paste. Saute the paste over medium heat until it turns a deep red color. Doing this will release the full umami flavor that truly makes your dish something special. From there, it can be added to pasta sauce, chili and other stews, sauteed vegetables like peppers and onions, soups, and more.
Tomato paste nutrition and vitamin info per 100g
| Energy | 82 | kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.4699999988079071 | g |
| Carbohydrate Total | 18.90999984741211 | g |
| Sugars | 12.180000305175781 | g |
| Protein | 4.320000171661377 | g |
| Sodium | 59 | mg |
| Fiber | 4.099999904632568 | g |
5953 recipes to cook with Tomato paste
Tomato paste substitutes
- Regular substitute
Tomato paste equivalents and varieties
- Hot tomato paste
- Tomato paste with herb
- Sun dried tomato paste
- No salt added tomato paste
- Canned tomato paste
Tomato paste cooking tips
Samsung FoodBest is to add tomato paste at the beginning of your cooking process, along with some aromatics.
- Samsung Food
Tomato paste secret: caramelization is the answer. Sizzle it over some oil for around 5 minutes over medium heat. Deglaze your pan with some water and your are ready to continue with your dish.