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Tomato Puree vs. Tomato Paste-What’s the Difference?
When you’re cooking up a storm in the kitchen, you might come across recipes calling for tomato puree or tomato paste. What are these things, and how are they different from each other? Let’s delve into the world of tomatoes and unravel the mysteries behind tomato puree and tomato paste.
Tomato Puree.
Let’s start with tomato puree. Imagine a smooth, silky concoction made from ripe, juicy tomatoes. That’s tomato puree for you! It’s essentially tomatoes that have been cooked down, strained, and pureed to a smooth consistency.
Tomato Paste.
Now, onto tomato paste. Picture a more concentrated version of tomatoes, packed with intense flavor. That’s what tomato paste is all about! It’s made by cooking tomatoes for a longer period, reducing them down to a thick, rich paste.
Differences.
Consistency.
- Tomato puree is smooth and liquidy, resembling a thick sauce.
- Tomato paste is much thicker and denser, almost like a concentrated tomato sauce.
Flavor.
- Tomato puree has a milder flavor compared to tomato paste.
- Tomato paste is more intense and concentrated, adding a burst of tomato goodness to dishes.
Usage.
- Tomato puree is versatile and can be used as a base for soups, sauces, stews, and curries.
- Tomato paste is often used in smaller quantities to add depth and richness to dishes like pasta sauces, chili, and marinades.
Now that we’ve cleared up the differences between tomato puree and tomato paste, let’s move on to another tomato-based delight: tomato sauce.
Tomato Puree vs. Tomato Sauce.
You might be wondering, what sets tomato puree apart from tomato sauce? Let’s find out!
Tomato Sauce.
Tomato sauce is like the all-purpose cousin of tomato puree. It’s a cooked-down mixture of tomatoes, seasoned with herbs, spices, and sometimes other vegetables like onions and garlic. Tomato sauce has a thicker consistency than puree but is not as concentrated as tomato paste.
Differences.
Ingredients.
- Tomato puree contains only tomatoes that have been cooked and strained.
- Tomato sauce includes additional ingredients like herbs, spices, onions, and garlic for added flavor.
Consistency.
- Tomato puree is smoother and more liquidy compared to tomato sauce.
- Tomato sauce is thicker and has a chunkier texture due to added ingredients.
Flavor.
- Tomato puree has a mild, pure tomato flavor.
- Tomato sauce has a more complex flavor profile due to the added seasonings and vegetables.
How to Make Tomato Puree?
Now that we’ve explored the differences between tomato puree, tomato paste, and tomato sauce, let’s roll up our sleeves and learn how to make tomato puree from scratch. It’s simpler than you might think!
Ingredients.
- Ripe tomatoes
- Water (optional)
Equipment.
- Large pot
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Instructions.
Prepare the Tomatoes.
- Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Blanch the Tomatoes.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Using a sharp knife, score a small “X” on the bottom of each tomato.
- Carefully place the tomatoes in the boiling water and blanch them for about 1-2 minutes, or until the skins start to loosen.
Shock the Tomatoes.
- Remove the blanched tomatoes from the boiling water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water.
- This process, known as shocking, helps stop the cooking process and makes it easier to peel the tomatoes.
Peel the Tomatoes.
- Once the tomatoes have cooled down, remove them from the ice water.
- Gently peel off the skins starting from the “X” you scored earlier. The skins should come off easily.
Remove Seeds and Cores (Optional).
- If you prefer a smoother puree, cut the tomatoes in half and scoop out the seeds and cores using a spoon. This step is optional but can help achieve a smoother consistency.
Puree the Tomatoes.
- Place the peeled and seeded tomatoes in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of water to help loosen the puree.
Strain the Puree (Optional).
- For an extra-smooth puree, strain the blended tomatoes through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any seeds or pulp.
Store or Use Immediately.
- Transfer the tomato puree to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage.
Benefits of Tomatoes.
Tomatoes aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly nutritious for both children and adults! Here are some of the benefits.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals.
- Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate, which are essential for overall health and wellbeing.
Antioxidant Powerhouse.
- Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Supports Eye Health.
- The vitamin A and lutein found in tomatoes are beneficial for eye health and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Promotes Heart Health.
- The potassium and folate in tomatoes support heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Aids Digestion.
- Tomatoes are a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and may reduce the risk of constipation and other digestive issues.
Incorporating tomatoes, whether in the form of puree, paste, or sauce, into your diet can provide a wide range of health benefits for both children and adults. So go ahead and enjoy that delicious homemade marinara sauce or hearty tomato soup knowing that you’re not just indulging your taste buds, but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients.
