Tomato Paste

Solanum lycopersicum Pantry Staple, Sauce Base

Tomato Paste Pantry Staple, Sauce Base

At a Glance

  • Category Pantry Staple, Sauce Base

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret weapon for concentrated umami and robust depth in sauces and braises."

Definition

A thick concentrate made from cooked tomatoes, with seeds and skins removed, used to deepen and enrich the flavor of sauces and stews.

Browning Benefit Blooming" or cooking paste briefly enhances flavor and sweetness."
Flavor Concentration Equivalent to many fresh tomatoes, imparting deep umami.
Storage Tip Freeze unused paste in tablespoon portions for future use.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tomato Paste are:

Concentrated Umami Sweet Tangy Intense Tomato

Chef’s Secret

Always bloom" tomato paste by sautéing it in oil for a few minutes before adding other liquids. This deepens its flavor and reduces raw acidity."

Best Substitutes

Crushed Tomatoes

ratio, cook down to thicken
Ratio 2:1

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

for intense flavor, rehydrate if needed
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose paste in tubes for convenience and less waste. Canned paste should have no dents or bulging.

Recipes Using Tomato Paste

Ground Beef Romantic Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Best Of Both Worlds Lasagna

Get ready to experience lasagna like never before! This 'Best of Both Worlds' recipe from a vintage 'Bride's Cookbook' (found at a garage sale, no less!) combines the best of meaty, cheesy, and saucy goodness in unexpected layers. Forget everything you thought you knew about lasagna – this one's different. People rave about the creamy cottage cheese with fresh chives, the perfectly browned meat sauce, and the combination of shredded and sliced mozzarella. This isn't your grandma's lasagna (unless your grandma is a culinary genius!). It's a HUGE lasagna, so grab your biggest pan! We've tweaked the original recipe to add extra delicious sauce, making it even more irresistible. Prepare for a flavor explosion!

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4 Hours Or Less Course Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less

Beef Rolls Rindsrouladen

Experience the rich flavors of Germany with this authentic Beef Rolls (Rindsrouladen) recipe, passed down through generations! These savory beef rolls, filled with tangy pickles, onions, and mustard, are surprisingly addictive. Originally a hit at a school heritage day, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Don't let the unique combination of ingredients fool you – this is a culinary masterpiece you won't want to miss!

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Main Dish Meat Dietary Chili

All American County Fair Prize Winning Chili

This legendary chili recipe, perfected over years, consistently wins raves! Make a massive batch (enough for 30-40 servings!) to freeze and enjoy for months. Its rich, flavorful profile (cumin-free!) is packed with heat and satisfying goodness. Perfect for chili dogs, or topped with cheddar, sour cream, bread, and nacho chips. Share your county fair success (and maybe your favorite pie recipe!) with me if you win!

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North American Beginner Cook Occasion Course

Balsamic Bbq Sauce

Elevate your grilling game with this incredible Balsamic BBQ Sauce! Bursting with sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, this recipe is a must-try for chicken, ribs, pork, and more. The rich balsamic vinegar adds depth and complexity that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners!

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Mushrooms Pasta Rice And Grains Vegetables Ground Beef

Beef Mushroom Ragu Over Fresh Cheese Ravioli

Indulge in this rich and savory Beef Mushroom Ragu, perfectly draped over delicate fresh cheese ravioli! This crowd-pleasing recipe boasts a flavorful ragu simmered to perfection, combining tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. A simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Preparation Beef Low In Something Course

Leftovers Spaghetti Sauce

Transform your leftover ground beef and pantry staples into a hearty, flavorful spaghetti sauce! This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and proves that delicious doesn't have to be expensive. I threw together fridge leftovers and pantry ingredients, and the result was a surprisingly delicious sauce that even my husband loved! Get ready for a taste of comforting Italian goodness without breaking the bank.

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4 Hours Or Less Savory Middle Eastern Equipment

Al Kabsa Traditional Saudi Rice Chicken Dish

Experience the rich flavors of authentic Al Kabsa, a traditional Saudi Arabian dish! This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a fragrant blend of spices and served over fluffy rice. A delightful variation on this classic, perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to savor the aromatic spices and succulent chicken in this easy-to-follow recipe. Discover the magic of Al Kabsa today!

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Main Ingredient Beef 60 Minutes Or Less Chili

Argentine Chili

Fire up your taste buds with Rachel Ray's Argentine-inspired chili! This hearty recipe combines tender beef, savory chorizo, and vibrant spices for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Topped with a zesty, spicy chimichurri sauce, it's the perfect comfort food with a South American twist. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Meat Snacks Brunch Occasion

Aussie Bushman's Pie

Taste the Outback! This hearty Aussie Bushman's Pie recipe, adapted from the Sunbeam Pie Maker book, is a delicious and easy-to-make savory treat. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers rich, satisfying flavors in just 25 minutes. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Penne Pasta 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Baked Penne With Italian Sausage

A comforting and flavorful baked penne pasta dish bursting with savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Italian-American comfort food!

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Easy Low Carb Healthy 2 Low Sodium

Beef Orzo Soup

A hearty and flavorful Beef Orzo Soup recipe perfect for a cozy night in! This comforting classic features tender beef cubes, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a rich broth brimming with carrots and celery. Inspired by a recipe from Old Fashioned Living, this updated version provides clear instructions and delicious results.

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Low Cholesterol Mexican 3 Steps Or Less Cuisine

Ancho Chile Sauce

Elevate your BBQ game with this intensely flavorful Ancho Chile Sauce! Perfect for brisket, chicken, ribs, and more, this recipe delivers a rich, smoky depth that will leave your taste buds singing. Easily customizable, it's a must-try for both seasoned pitmasters and kitchen novices. Get ready for the best BBQ sauce you've ever tasted!

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Cuisine Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Time To Make Equipment

Adriana's Pasta Pie

Prepare for a culinary revelation! This Adriana's Pasta Pie recipe, straight from the legendary St. Louis Italian hilltop restaurant, is a game-changer. Get ready for a rich, meaty crust and a decadent pasta filling that will leave you craving more. This recipe makes extra delicious sauce, perfect for future meals. Plus, it's freezer-friendly! Bake it partially, freeze it, and bake it later for ultimate convenience. Featured on FoodTV.com (with slight variations), this is a must-try for pasta lovers.

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Beginner Cook Cuisine Main Dish African

Beef Vegetables

Transform tough steak into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece with this flavorful Moroccan-inspired stew! Accidentally bought a tougher cut? No problem! This recipe uses a long, slow simmering technique to tenderize the beef, resulting in a rich and aromatic dish bursting with tender vegetables. Served over fluffy rice or couscous, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Tomatoes Low Cholesterol Low In Something Low Carb

Anguillan Barbecue Sauce

Escape to the sun-drenched shores of Anguilla with this vibrant and flavorful barbecue sauce! Inspired by the Caribbean island, this recipe delivers a taste of paradise. Perfect for chicken, ribs, or as a dipping sauce, this recipe makes a generous amount – enough for multiple meals! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Cuisine Course Main Dish Cuisine

African Chicken In Spicy Red Sauce

Indulge in this fiery Ethiopian-inspired chicken stew! Inspired by a Cooking Light recipe (October 2006), this recipe delivers bold, vibrant flavors thanks to the aromatic berbere spice blend. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, this recipe is easily adaptable to your preference. The creamy, spicy sauce is perfectly balanced and pairs wonderfully with basmati rice. A swirl of plain yogurt adds a beautiful presentation and a cool, creamy contrast to the rich sauce. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor in this unforgettable dish!

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Pasta Main Ingredient Preparation European

American Beauty Lasagna

Rediscover the legendary lasagna recipe that graced American Beauty lasagna noodle boxes! This nostalgic favorite, unchanged for over 25 years, delivers unbeatable cheesy, meaty goodness. Our version is a true throwback, capturing the rich flavors and creamy texture that made it a classic. Get ready for a taste of comfort food perfection!

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European Dietary Italian Beef

Awesome Crock Pot Lasagna

This slow-cooker lasagna is a game-changer! Impress your family and friends with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this Crock-Pot Lasagna requires minimal prep and delivers maximum deliciousness. Say goodbye to hours spent tending to the oven and hello to a comforting, cheesy masterpiece!

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