Condiment | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Tomato Paste

Solanum lycopersicum Allergen-Free
tomato paste

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean, Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Tomatoes

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A thick, concentrated paste made from cooked and strained tomatoes, used to deepen flavor and thicken sauces.

Sensory Profile

TasteIntense Umami, Sweet, Tangy
TextureThick, Smooth, Concentrated
AromaDeep Tomato, Earthy
AcidityMedium-High

Technical Metrics

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.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (18g)
Calories82 kcal
Total Fat0.2 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein3.5 g
Total Carbohydrate18.5 g
Dietary Fiber3.7 g
Total Sugars12 g
Calcium38 mg
Iron1.5 mg
Potassium706 mg

Chef’s Secret

Always sauté tomato paste in oil for a few minutes before adding liquid; this deepens its flavor and sweetness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Tomato Sauce (reduced)

2-3 tbsp reduced:1 tbsp paste

Requires cooking down for similar thickness and flavor intensity.

Canned Crushed Tomatoes

3 tbsp:1 tbsp paste

More liquid, less concentrated, suitable for sauces requiring more volume.

Ketchup

1 tbsp:1 tbsp paste

Contains sugar and vinegar, alters flavor profile, use sparingly.

Sun-dried Tomatoes (rehydrated)

1:1 (chopped)

Adds intense, sweet-tart tomato flavor, different texture.

Buying Guide

Available in cans or tubes. Tubes offer better preservation for small portions. Refrigerate after opening.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic Onions Herbs (Basil Oregano) Meat Pasta Vegetables

Recipes Using Tomato Paste

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