Characteristics of Tomato Paste
Color: Deep red, indicating a high concentration of tomatoes.
Texture: Thick and smooth, almost like a dense puree.
Flavor: Rich, sweet, and slightly tangy due to the concentration of tomatoes.
Production Process
Selection of Tomatoes: Typically made from ripe, red tomatoes with high natural sugar content.
Cooking and Reduction: Tomatoes are cooked to reduce water content, concentrating the flavors.
Straining: Seeds, skins, and other solids are removed to create a smooth paste.
Further Reduction: The strained tomato liquid is cooked again to reach the desired thickness.
Packaging: The paste is often canned or packed in tubes for long shelf life.
Uses and Applications
Cooking: Adds concentrated tomato flavor to sauces, soups, stews, and casseroles.
Commonly used in Italian dishes like pasta sauces and pizza.
Base Ingredient: Forms the foundation for barbecue sauces, ketchup, and various condiments.
Marinades and Dressings: Used in marinades for meats and dressings for salads to impart rich tomato flavor.
Tomato paste comes in various concentrations, typically measured by the percentage of soluble solids (also known as Brix levels) present in the paste. The concentration levels indicate how much the tomatoes have been reduced and the thickness of the paste. Here are the different types of tomato paste based on concentration:
1. Standard Tomato Paste (28-30% Brix)
– This is the most common type of tomato paste.
– It is typically used in a wide range of culinary applications, including sauces, soups, and stews.
– The Brix level of 28-30% means it has a medium thickness and a strong tomato flavor.
2. Double Concentrated Tomato Paste (36-38% Brix)
– This type of tomato paste has been further reduced to remove more water, resulting in a thicker and more intense flavor.
– It is ideal for recipes that require a robust tomato taste without adding too much liquid.
– Often used in professional kitchens and for making rich sauces.
3. Triple Concentrated Tomato Paste (48-50% Brix)
– This is the thickest and most concentrated form of tomato paste.
– With a very intense tomato flavor, it is used sparingly in recipes.
– It is suitable for dishes that need a strong tomato presence without diluting other ingredients.
Tomato paste is a versatile and essential ingredient in many kitchens, offering a concentrated burst of tomato flavor that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Its long shelf life and rich nutritional profile make it a valuable addition to both home and professional cooking.
