Best Tomato Paste Recipe From Scratch

Cover Easy Homemade Tomato Paste Recipe Oh, The Things We'll Make! (1200x1745)

Table of Contents

• What is Tomato Paste?
• What are the Benefits of Tomato Paste?
• What Equipment Do You Need to Make Tomato Paste?
• How Do You Make Tomato Paste?
• How Do You Store Tomato Paste?

What is Tomato Paste?

Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated paste made from cooked tomatoes. It is commonly used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews. It is also used as a flavoring agent and a topping for pizzas and other dishes. Tomato paste is high in umami flavor, which is the savory taste that enhances the flavor of other foods.

To make tomato paste, tomatoes are cooked down until most of the liquid has evaporated, leaving behind a thick, concentrated paste. This process intensifies the flavor of the tomatoes and makes them more versatile in cooking.

Tomato paste is sold in cans or tubes at most grocery stores. However, making your own tomato paste at home can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the quality of the ingredients.

What are the Benefits of Tomato Paste?

Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Tomato paste is a concentrated source of these nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your diet. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a great ingredient for those who are watching their weight.

Additionally, the umami flavor of tomato paste can enhance the flavor of other foods and reduce the need for added salt, sugar, or fat in recipes.

What Equipment Do You Need to Make Tomato Paste?

To make tomato paste at home, you will need the following equipment:

• Tomatoes
• A large pot
• A food mill or sieve
• A baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• A blender or food processor (optional)

While a food mill or sieve is recommended for making tomato paste, you can also use a blender or food processor to puree the tomatoes and remove the skins and seeds. However, this method may result in a slightly different texture than traditional tomato paste.

How Do You Make Tomato Paste?

To make tomato paste at home, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cut the stem off of each tomato and cut an “X” into the bottom of each tomato.
3. Place the tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Bake the tomatoes for 30-40 minutes, or until the skins have started to separate from the flesh and the tomatoes are soft and juicy.
5. Let the tomatoes cool slightly, then remove the skins and seeds by pushing them through a food mill or sieve into a large pot.
6. Simmer the tomato puree over low heat, stirring frequently, until it has thickened and most of the liquid has evaporated. This can take several hours, depending on the amount of tomato puree you are working with.
7. Once the tomato puree has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
8. If desired, puree the tomato paste in a blender or food processor to achieve a smoother texture.
9. Transfer the tomato paste to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

How Do You Store Tomato Paste?

Tomato paste can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 6 months. To store tomato paste in the freezer, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date. Frozen tomato paste can be thawed in the refrigerator or in the microwave.

To prevent freezer burn, it is best to store tomato paste in small portions that you can use up quickly. You can also freeze tomato paste in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag for easy portioning.

Conclusion

Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that can add depth of flavor and nutrition to many different dishes. Making your own tomato paste at home can be a fun and cost-effective way to experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you choose to make your own tomato paste or buy it at the grocery store, it is a healthy and delicious addition to your pantry.