Is Tomato Paste the Same as Purée? A Deep Dive
Tomato paste and purée are both derived from tomatoes, but they are distinct products with different consistencies, flavors, and culinary applications. Tomato paste is far more concentrated, resulting in a much richer, more intense tomato flavor than tomato purée.
The Tomato: A Culinary Staple
The tomato, botanically a fruit, is a culinary vegetable that forms the base of countless dishes worldwide. From simple sauces to elaborate stews, the versatile tomato provides a signature tangy sweetness that enhances a variety of cuisines. Understanding the different processed forms of tomatoes, like paste and purée, allows cooks to leverage their unique properties for optimal flavor and texture.
Defining Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a highly concentrated product made by cooking tomatoes for several hours to reduce their water content and then straining out the seeds and skin. The resulting thick, intensely flavored paste is used in small quantities to add depth and richness to sauces, stews, and other dishes.
- Process: Tomatoes are cooked until significantly reduced.
- Consistency: Very thick and dense.
- Flavor: Intensely tomatoey, slightly sweet and acidic.
- Uses: Enhancing flavor, thickening sauces, adding color.
Defining Tomato Purée
Tomato purée is made by cooking tomatoes briefly and then blending them into a smooth consistency. It has a thinner consistency and milder flavor than tomato paste and is often used as a base for sauces or as a replacement for fresh tomatoes.
- Process: Tomatoes are briefly cooked and blended.
- Consistency: Smooth but less dense than paste.
- Flavor: Mild tomato flavor, less concentrated than paste.
- Uses: Base for sauces, replacement for fresh tomatoes, adding moisture.
Manufacturing Differences Explained
The key difference between tomato paste and purée lies in the manufacturing process, specifically the degree of reduction achieved through cooking.
- Tomato Selection: Both start with ripe, high-quality tomatoes.
- Washing and Sorting: Tomatoes are thoroughly cleaned and sorted to remove any imperfections.
- Crushing and Heating: Tomatoes are crushed and heated to begin breaking them down.
- Paste Reduction: For paste, the tomato mixture is simmered for an extended period, sometimes for hours, to evaporate water and concentrate the solids.
- Purée Processing: For purée, the mixture is cooked for a shorter period, preserving more water.
- Straining: Both are strained to remove seeds and skin.
- Paste Concentration: Tomato paste undergoes additional processing to remove even more water, resulting in a thicker consistency.
- Packaging: Both are packaged in cans, tubes, or jars.
Culinary Applications
Understanding the differences between tomato paste and purée is crucial for successful cooking.
| Feature | Tomato Paste | Tomato Purée |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Very thick | Smooth and relatively thin |
| Flavor | Intense, concentrated tomato flavor | Mild, fresh tomato flavor |
| Use | Enhancing depth of flavor, thickening sauces | Base for sauces, replacing fresh tomatoes |
| Quantity | Used in small amounts | Used in larger amounts |
| Best For | Adding richness to stews, braises, and sauces | Making tomato soup, pasta sauces, pizza sauce |
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is substituting tomato purée for tomato paste in a recipe, or vice versa, without adjusting the quantities and other ingredients. This can result in a sauce that is either too thin and bland (if purée is used instead of paste) or too thick and overpowering (if paste is used instead of purée). Another error is burning tomato paste. Because of its high sugar content, tomato paste can quickly burn if cooked over high heat without sufficient liquid. Stir frequently when sautéing.
Proper Storage
- Unopened: Both tomato paste and purée can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to two years.
- Opened: Once opened, tomato paste and purée should be refrigerated. Tomato paste can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. To prevent mold growth, transfer the paste to an airtight container and cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil. Tomato purée can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute tomato purée for tomato paste?
Yes, you can substitute tomato purée for tomato paste, but you’ll need to use a larger quantity to achieve a similar intensity of flavor. Generally, use about three times the amount of purée as you would paste. You may also need to reduce the cooking time to compensate for the higher water content in the purée.
Can I substitute tomato paste for tomato purée?
Yes, you can substitute tomato paste for tomato purée, but you’ll need to dilute it to match the consistency and flavor profile of purée. Mix the tomato paste with water until it reaches the desired consistency. Start with a small amount of water and add more gradually until you achieve the correct thickness.
Does tomato paste have more nutrients than tomato purée?
Due to its concentrated nature, tomato paste generally has a higher concentration of nutrients per serving compared to tomato purée. This includes vitamins like Vitamin C and minerals like potassium. Both are healthy additions to your diet.
Is tomato paste acidic?
Yes, tomato paste is naturally acidic due to the organic acids present in tomatoes. This acidity contributes to its flavor and helps to preserve it. It can also affect the pH of dishes, which is something to consider when balancing flavors in a recipe.
Why is tomato paste sometimes sold in tubes?
Tomato paste is often sold in tubes because it is typically used in small quantities. The tube packaging allows you to easily squeeze out the required amount and reseal it, preventing the remaining paste from drying out and spoiling.
What’s the difference between tomato paste and tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce is a more complex product that includes tomatoes, herbs, spices, and sometimes other vegetables. Tomato paste is a simple concentrate. Tomato sauce is ready to use as is, while tomato paste is typically used as an ingredient to enhance or thicken other sauces and dishes.
Can I freeze leftover tomato paste or purée?
Yes, you can freeze both tomato paste and purée to extend their shelf life. Portion them into ice cube trays or small freezer bags for easy use later. Ensure they are properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Does homemade tomato paste taste different from store-bought?
Homemade tomato paste often has a fresher, more vibrant flavor than store-bought paste, especially if made with homegrown or locally sourced tomatoes. The flavor can also be customized by adding different herbs and spices during the cooking process.
How can I tell if tomato paste has gone bad?
Signs that tomato paste has gone bad include mold growth, a foul odor, or a significant change in color. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the paste. Taste with extreme caution if appearance is doubtful.
Is there a vegan version of tomato paste and purée?
Both tomato paste and purée are naturally vegan, as they are made from tomatoes and contain no animal-derived ingredients. Always check the label to ensure no additional non-vegan additives have been included.
Are there any health benefits associated with consuming tomato paste or purée?
Yes, both tomato paste and purée are good sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. They also provide vitamins and minerals.
What is double-concentrated tomato paste?
Double-concentrated tomato paste is a more intensely flavored and thicker version of regular tomato paste. It has been cooked down even further to remove more water, resulting in a higher concentration of tomato solids. Use it sparingly for a very potent tomato flavor.