Tomato paste is a versatile, flavor‑intense ingredient made by concentrating ripe tomatoes into a thick, smooth paste. It delivers deep umami, natural sweetness, and vibrant color to your dishes—and a little goes a long way.
1. How Is Tomato Paste Made?
- Harvest & Prep
- Select fully ripe, meaty tomatoes (e.g., Roma or San Marzano).
- Wash, core, and quarter.
- Cook & Strain
- Simmer tomatoes until soft.
- Strain through a sieve to remove skins and seeds.
- Concentrate
- Return the liquid to low heat.
- Evaporate water until viscosity reaches 28–38 °Brix (enough to hold a spoon upright).
- Package
- Pack into 6 oz cans or 4.5 oz tubes (with optional salt or citric acid).
- Seal and sterilize for shelf stability.
2. Top Culinary Uses
- Sauces & Soups: Builds rich depth in marinara, bisques, and bisques.
- Stews & Braises: Adds umami without extra liquid—think chili, beef stew, shepherd’s pie.
- Quick Flavor Boost: Sauté 1 Tbsp in oil until brick‑red, then add proteins or veggies.
- Homemade Bases: Make your own pizza sauce, BBQ glaze, or taco filling.
3. Storage & Shelf‑Life Hacks
| Packaging | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Tube | Roll from bottom → Refrigerate up to 3 months | — |
| Can | Transfer to airtight container → Use in 5–7 days | Freeze 1 Tbsp portions in ice‑cube tray |
Pro tip: Label and date freezer bags so you always grab the exact amount you need.
4. Must‑Watch Video Guides
- How to Store Tomato Paste Properly
▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8GzO5hl9V0 - Tomato Paste vs. Purée: What’s the Difference?
▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6qf5nNf6ZI
5. FAQ
Q1: Can I substitute tomato purée for paste?
A: Yes—use 2× the purée and reduce other liquids; cook longer to thicken.
Q2: What Brix level should I aim for?
A: For standard paste, 28–30 °Brix; double‑concentrated is 36–38 °Brix.
Q3: Is tube better than can?
A: Tubes avoid waste and oxidation; cans are more cost‑effective per ounce
6. Internal Linking Suggestions
- Link to your Looking for Tomato Paste Manufacturers Nearby? Try Taichy Food’s Bulk Export Services
- Link to a guid purchase guide of tomato paste
- Link to a storage tips
