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tomato paste

CondimentsYear-round. Tomato paste is shelf-stable and produced from concentrated tomatoes, making it available consistently regardless of fresh tomato seasonality, though peak production occurs during late summer and fall harvest periods.

Rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant associated with cardiovascular and prostate health, and contains significant amounts of vitamin C and potassium in concentrated form. The cooking and concentration process that produces paste actually increases lycopene bioavailability compared to fresh tomatoes.

About

Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated condiment produced by cooking tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) for hours, straining out seeds and skins, then cooking the resulting liquid further until it reaches a dense, deeply colored paste. Originating from regions around the Mediterranean where tomatoes were cultivated after their introduction from the Americas, tomato paste represents one of the most economical ways to preserve tomato flavor in concentrated form. The paste is characterized by its deep red to burgundy color, intense umami-rich flavor, slight acidity, and smooth, viscous texture. Commercial tomato paste typically contains no additives beyond salt, though some variations may include garlic, basil, or oils.

The concentration level of tomato paste varies by producer and intended use; paste typically represents tomato solids concentrated to roughly 25-30% by evaporation, creating a product that is approximately three to six times more concentrated than tomato puree.

Culinary Uses

Tomato paste functions as a foundational building block in numerous cuisines, particularly Mediterranean, Latin American, and Asian cooking traditions. It is essential in Italian sauces (ragù, arrabbiata bases), Spanish sofrito preparations, and Middle Eastern stews and marinades. The ingredient is also fundamental to ketchup, barbecue sauces, and curry bases across Asian cuisines. In the kitchen, small amounts of tomato paste are typically bloomed in oil or fat before adding liquid to develop flavor, preventing the harsh acidity that can result from direct hydration. It serves to deepen tomato flavor, add body, and enhance umami in soups, braises, sauces, and marinades. Because of its concentrated nature, a small quantity yields significant flavor impact, making it an economical choice for kitchens seeking intense tomato character year-round.

Recipes Using tomato paste (257)

RCI-SC.001.0096.001

African Hot Sauce

African Hot Sauce from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SF.002.0256.001

Akotonshi

Stuffed crab

RCI-VG.004.0093.001

Algerian Harira

Algerian Harira from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0342.001

All-American Chili

All American Chili

RCI-SP.003.0310.001

All-American Chili I

All American Chili II

RCI-VG.004.0096.001

Amhari Mesir Wat

This recipe is common to the Ethiopian Jews (Phalashi). My understanding is that these are NOT unique to them.

RCI-MT.006.1163.001

Arabasi

300px| Arabasi It is cooked usually in special days as New Year Eve in Central Anatolia Region. Turkey may be used instead of chicken in some areas. Soup is served very hot.

RCI-MT.005.0220.001

Arabian Meatballs in Broth

This recipe yields 4 servings.

RCI-SP.003.0431.001

Arabian Stew

This recipe is for 6 serves.

RCI-SP.001.0440.001

Arroz a la Mexicana

Mexican rice Makes 4 servings.

RCI-MT.005.0031.001

Arroz Tapado

Arros tapado (Spanish for molded rice) is very popular in Peru and is a favorite among children because the recipe calls for molding rice and minced beef into a shape.

RCI-MT.002.0059.001

Baby Back Ribs

I've put two methods here: The traditional smoking, and the oven smoking method. Both of them produce mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone ribs.

RCI-SF.002.0070.001

Bahamian Crab and Rice

The most important part of the national dish of the Bahamas. Eaten almost everyday with steamed Nassau grouper, coleslaw and fried plaintain especially between the months of June and August.

RCI-SP.005.0049.001

Bahamian Lamb Curry

Bahamian Lamb Curry from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.0377.001

Baked Bean Creole

.

RCI-VG.003.0085.001

Baked Cajun Rice

Baked Cajun Rice from the Recidemia collection

RCI-ND.001.0036.001

Baked Penne

Baked Penne from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.002.0004.001

Baked Ratatouille

This recipe came from an estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Baxter Estate in Heath, Texas in 1984.

RCI-SN.004.1164.001

Banana ketchup

you can put it in hamburgers and cakes.

RCI-MT.006.0915.001

Barbecued Chicken Spicy Southern-style

Barbecued Chicken Spicy Southern-style from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.002.0213.001

Barbecued Chilean Sea Bass with Orange

If cooking the Chilean sea bass on a charcoal grill, be sure that the fillet pieces are at least 1½ inches thick to ensure that the fish won't fall apart when it is cooked. This recipe yields 4 servings.

RCI-MT.002.0196.001

Barbecued Ribs

Contributed by [http://Groups.Yahoo.Com/Group/Catsrecipes/ Catsrecipes Y-Group] * Source: Marlboro C

RCI-MT.002.0034.002

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.002.0034.001

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.002.0211.001

Barbecue Sauce I

Yield: makes 2 cups

RCI-VG.004.0154.001

Basic Recipe for Beans

Basic Recipe for Beans from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0025.001

Beef and Barley Stew

- This hearty stew can be prepared from freezer to table in under 2 hours. It's easy to prepare ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

RCI-MT.003.0009.001

Beef braised in Beer

Beef braised in Beer from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.001.0176.001

Beef Burgundy

Beef Burgundy This is a great winter dish. I find that it is very rich but feels nourishing, and of course means you can drink the rest of the bottle.

RCI-BV.003.0062.001

Beef Empanadas

Beef Empanadas from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.001.0035.001

Beef Paprikas

Beef Paprikas from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.003.0012.001

Beef Satay

Beef satay Makes me think of Bali! Serve hot or cold. Serves 6.

RCI-VG.001.0505.001

Benihana Oriental Salad Dressing

From Benihana of Tokyo in Los Angeles.

RCI-ND.001.0219.001

Berkoukes

Pasta bullets with vegetarian sauce

RCI-MT.006.0747.001

Biriani I

Biriani I from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0084.001

Black Bean Chili Pot Pie

Black Bean Chili Pot Pie from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SC.003.0089.001

Black-eyed Pea and Rice Dressing

Peas, Black-Eyed Dry by the US Department of Agriculture, public domain government resource—original source of recipe Makes an excellent stuffing for chicken or can be served as a side dish.

RCI-SN.004.0149.001

Blehat Lahma

Lamb loaves with apricots and egg Serves 6 to 8

RCI-SP.003.0064.002

Boeuf Bourguignon

(French for Burgundy beef) is a well known, traditional French stew prepared with beef braised in red wine (originally Burgundy wine) and beef broth, flavored with garlic, onions, carrots, a bouquet garni a

RCI-ND.001.0341.001

Bolognese Sauce by Jerkstore77

Bolognese Sauce by Jerkstore77 from the Recidemia collection

RCI-ND.001.0227.001

Bolognese Sauce II

Original recipe Makes 3 cups or 4 servings.

RCI-MT.003.0011.001

Braised Beef Maitre Menan

The Beef for this richly aromatic dish must be marinated for 48 hours, so start preparations 2 or 3 days before you plan to serve it. Naturally, this is wonderful dish for reheating, with only the potatoes cooked at the last minute. Servers 6 person.

RCI-MT.003.0008.001

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Beef Short Ribs are cheap and can make an excellent winter warmer. I like to braise in the fall and winter as the oven adds heat to the house and the smells when coming in from the cold will blow your socks off.

RCI-MT.003.0015.001

Braised Lamb Shanks in Merlot with Figs

Purchased from the Patterson Estate in Tyler, Texas in 1992. Dated 1944.

RCI-MT.003.0005.001

Braised Shortribs

Shortribs cooked in beef broth with aromatic herbs and vegetables makes a fork-tender, flavorful entrée.

RCI-MT.006.0070.001

Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Wings from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.006.0066.001

Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Wings from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.0117.001

Bulgarian Red Pepper Stew

Bulgarian Red Pepper Stew from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.005.0028.001

Bulgher Burger

A is a tasty vegetarian patty for use in sandwiches.

RCI-SP.001.0201.001

Canadian Vegetable Soup

A nice piece of work this soup is; Veggies & herbs makes this canadian soup one of the best soups to create and taste ! Requires basic cooking skills.