As a home cook in the UK, you’re likely no stranger to the world of tomato-based sauces and recipes. From classic spaghetti Bolognese to hearty stews and soups, tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many of our favourite dishes. But have you ever found yourself wondering if you can use tomato puree instead of tomato paste in a recipe? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of tomato products, exploring the differences between tomato puree and tomato paste, and helping you decide when to use each.
Understanding Tomato Puree and Tomato Paste
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of substituting tomato puree for tomato paste, it’s essential to understand what each product is and how they’re made.
Tomato Puree
Tomato puree is a liquid or semi-liquid product made from cooked tomatoes that have been blended or strained to create a smooth, sauce-like consistency. It’s often sold in cans or jars and can be found in most supermarkets. Tomato puree is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews, or as a side dish on its own.
Types of Tomato Puree
There are several types of tomato puree available in the UK, including:
- Single concentrate tomato puree: This is the most common type of tomato puree and is made from cooked tomatoes that have been blended and strained to create a smooth consistency.
- Double concentrate tomato puree: This type of tomato puree is made from cooked tomatoes that have been blended and strained, then reduced to create a thicker, more concentrated product.
- Organic tomato puree: This type of tomato puree is made from organic tomatoes and is often preferred by those who prioritize sustainable and environmentally-friendly food production.
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a concentrated paste made from cooked tomatoes that have been strained and reduced to create a thick, intense product. It’s often sold in small cans or jars and is a staple ingredient in many professional kitchens. Tomato paste is used to add depth and richness to sauces, soups, and stews, and is often used in small quantities due to its intense flavour.
Types of Tomato Paste
There are several types of tomato paste available in the UK, including:
- Concentrated tomato paste: This is the most common type of tomato paste and is made from cooked tomatoes that have been strained and reduced to create a thick, intense product.
- Sun-dried tomato paste: This type of tomato paste is made from sun-dried tomatoes that have been blended and strained to create a concentrated product.
- Organic tomato paste: This type of tomato paste is made from organic tomatoes and is often preferred by those who prioritize sustainable and environmentally-friendly food production.
Can I Use Tomato Puree Instead of Tomato Paste?
Now that we’ve explored the differences between tomato puree and tomato paste, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: can I use tomato puree instead of tomato paste?
The answer is yes, but with some caveats. While tomato puree can be used as a substitute for tomato paste in some recipes, it’s essential to keep in mind that the two products have different consistencies and flavour profiles.
When to Use Tomato Puree Instead of Tomato Paste
Tomato puree can be used as a substitute for tomato paste in recipes where a thinner consistency is desired. For example:
- Soups and stews: Tomato puree can be used to add flavour and moisture to soups and stews, and can be a good substitute for tomato paste in these types of recipes.
- Sauces and braising liquids: Tomato puree can be used to add flavour and moisture to sauces and braising liquids, and can be a good substitute for tomato paste in these types of recipes.
However, there are some recipes where tomato paste is preferred over tomato puree. For example:
- Intense sauces and reductions: Tomato paste is often used to add depth and richness to intense sauces and reductions, and is preferred over tomato puree in these types of recipes.
- Professional cooking: Tomato paste is often preferred by professional chefs due to its intense flavour and versatility in a variety of recipes.
How to Substitute Tomato Puree for Tomato Paste
If you do decide to use tomato puree instead of tomato paste, it’s essential to keep in mind that the two products have different consistencies and flavour profiles. Here are some tips for substituting tomato puree for tomato paste:
- Use a smaller amount: Tomato puree is often more diluted than tomato paste, so you may need to use a smaller amount to achieve the desired flavour.
- Reduce the liquid: Tomato puree can add more liquid to a recipe than tomato paste, so you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe to achieve the desired consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning: Tomato puree can have a milder flavour than tomato paste, so you may need to adjust the seasoning in the recipe to achieve the desired flavour.
| Tomato Paste | Tomato Puree |
|---|---|
| Concentrated paste made from cooked tomatoes | Liquid or semi-liquid product made from cooked tomatoes |
| Intense flavour and thick consistency | Milder flavour and thinner consistency |
| Often used in small quantities due to intense flavour | Can be used in larger quantities due to milder flavour |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while tomato puree can be used as a substitute for tomato paste in some recipes, it’s essential to keep in mind that the two products have different consistencies and flavour profiles. By understanding the differences between tomato puree and tomato paste, you can make informed decisions about which product to use in your recipes and achieve the desired flavour and consistency.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, we hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the world of tomato products and has helped you to make the most of these versatile ingredients in your cooking.
What is the difference between tomato puree and tomato paste?
Tomato puree and tomato paste are two popular ingredients used in various recipes, but they have distinct differences in terms of consistency, taste, and usage. Tomato puree is a liquid or semi-liquid mixture made from cooked and blended tomatoes, often with added water or other ingredients. On the other hand, tomato paste is a concentrated paste made from cooked tomatoes that have been strained and reduced to remove excess water.
The main difference between the two is the level of concentration and the resulting flavor intensity. Tomato puree has a milder flavor and a thinner consistency, making it suitable for sauces, soups, and stews. Tomato paste, with its rich and intense flavor, is often used to add depth and umami taste to dishes, particularly in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine.
Can I use tomato puree as a substitute for tomato paste?
While it’s technically possible to use tomato puree as a substitute for tomato paste, it’s not always the best option. Tomato puree has a higher water content than tomato paste, which can affect the overall consistency and flavor of the dish. If you’re using tomato puree as a substitute, you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
However, if you don’t have tomato paste on hand, you can try reducing the tomato puree by cooking it for a longer period to remove excess water and intensify the flavor. Keep in mind that this method may not produce the same level of concentration as tomato paste, but it can be a decent substitute in a pinch.
How do I store tomato puree and tomato paste?
Tomato puree and tomato paste can be stored in different ways, depending on their packaging and desired shelf life. Canned tomato puree can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 12 months, while fresh tomato puree should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Tomato paste, on the other hand, can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months or frozen for up to a year.
When storing tomato paste, it’s essential to keep it away from air and moisture to prevent spoilage. You can also divide the paste into smaller portions, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and freeze them for later use. This way, you can easily thaw and use the desired amount without having to defrost the entire container.
Can I make my own tomato puree and tomato paste at home?
Yes, you can make your own tomato puree and tomato paste at home using fresh tomatoes. To make tomato puree, simply cook down the tomatoes with some onions, garlic, and herbs, then blend the mixture until smooth. You can also add a little water or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
To make tomato paste, cook the tomatoes with minimal water until they’re soft and mushy, then strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove excess water. Transfer the resulting paste to a baking sheet and dry it in a low-temperature oven (150°C – 200°C) for several hours, stirring occasionally, until the paste reaches the desired consistency.
What are some common uses for tomato puree and tomato paste in UK cooking?
Tomato puree and tomato paste are staple ingredients in many UK recipes, particularly in Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Tomato puree is often used in sauces for pasta, pizza, and lasagna, as well as in soups, stews, and casseroles. It’s also a popular ingredient in Indian and Southeast Asian recipes, such as curries and stir-fries.
Tomato paste, on the other hand, is commonly used to add depth and umami flavor to dishes like stews, braises, and roasts. It’s also a key ingredient in many UK favorites, such as shepherd’s pie, chili con carne, and full English breakfast. Additionally, tomato paste can be used to make homemade ketchup, BBQ sauce, and other condiments.
Are there any health benefits to using tomato puree and tomato paste?
Tomato puree and tomato paste are both rich in nutrients, particularly lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to several health benefits. Lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and stroke, as well as protect against sun damage and improve skin health.
Tomato puree and tomato paste are also good sources of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. However, it’s essential to choose products that are low in salt and sugar, as excessive consumption can have negative health effects. Additionally, be mindful of portion sizes, as tomato puree and tomato paste can be high in calories due to their concentrated nature.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute for tomato paste?
While sun-dried tomatoes can add a rich, intense flavor to dishes, they’re not a direct substitute for tomato paste. Sun-dried tomatoes have a chewy texture and a more pronounced flavor than tomato paste, which can affect the overall consistency and taste of the dish.
However, you can use sun-dried tomatoes to make a homemade tomato paste by blending them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This method can produce a delicious and flavorful paste, but it may not have the same level of concentration as store-bought tomato paste. Additionally, sun-dried tomatoes can be quite salty, so be mindful of the seasoning in your recipe.