Tomato paste and tomato sauce are two common ingredients used in cooking, but they are not the same thing. They have different flavors, textures, and uses in recipes. In this article, we will discuss the differences between tomato paste and sauce, their nutritional values, the best ways to use them in cooking, and cost and availability.
We will also provide tips for storing and preserving tomato paste and sauce, as well as recipes that use them. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of these two ingredients and be able to choose the right one for your cooking needs.
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated form of tomato sauce. It is made by cooking down tomatoes, removing the skin and seeds, and simmering the pulp until it thickens. The resulting paste has a deep, rich flavor and a dark red color. It is often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, and can add a depth of flavor to a dish.
One of the advantages of using tomato paste is that it has a long shelf life. It can be stored in the pantry for up to two years, making it a convenient ingredient to have on hand. However, since it is concentrated, it can be overpowering if too much is used. It is important to use tomato paste sparingly and to dilute it with water or other liquids.
Tomato paste is best used in dishes that require a deep tomato flavor, such as chili, braised meats, and pasta sauces. It can also be used to add color to a dish, especially if the recipe calls for a darker, richer hue. A little bit of tomato paste can go a long way, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a thinner, less concentrated version of tomato paste. It is made by cooking down tomatoes with other ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and herbs. The resulting sauce has a bright, fresh flavor and a lighter color than tomato paste. It is often used as a base for pasta sauces, pizza, and other Italian dishes.
One of the advantages of using tomato sauce is that it is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a base for soups and stews, as a topping for pizza, and as a sauce for pasta dishes. However, since it is less concentrated than tomato paste, it can be watery if too much is used. It is important to use tomato sauce in moderation and to thicken it with other ingredients if needed.
Tomato sauce is best used in dishes that require a lighter, fresher tomato flavor, such as marinara sauce, pizza sauce, and tomato-based soups. It can also be used as a base for more complex sauces, such as bolognese or puttanesca sauce. Since it is less concentrated than tomato paste, it is a good choice for recipes that require a large volume of tomato sauce.
Comparison
When it comes to tomato paste vs sauce, there are several differences to consider. Flavor, texture, and color are the most obvious differences. Tomato paste has a deep, rich flavor and a dark red color, while tomato sauce has a bright, fresh flavor and a lighter color. Tomato paste is thick and concentrated, while tomato sauce is thinner and less concentrated.
Nutritional value is another factor to consider. Tomato paste is higher in vitamins and minerals than tomato sauce since it is more concentrated. It is also lower in calories and sugar since it contains fewer additives. However, tomato sauce can be a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that is believed to have health benefits, since it contains a larger volume of tomatoes.
Cost and availability are also important factors to consider. Tomato paste is often less expensive than tomato sauce since it requires fewer tomatoes to make. It is also more widely available in stores and can be found in most grocery stores. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, maybe more expensive and less widely available, especially if you are looking for a high-quality sauce made with fresh tomatoes and minimal additives.
In terms of cooking uses, tomato paste is best used in dishes that require a deep tomato flavor and a thick, rich texture. It is often used in soups, stews, and sauces, and can be added to dishes that need a boost of flavor. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of dishes, from pasta sauces to pizza toppings to soups and stews.
Nutritional Value
Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. However, the nutritional value of tomato paste and sauce can vary depending on the brand and the ingredients used. Tomato paste is higher in vitamins and minerals than tomato sauce since it is more concentrated. It is also lower in calories and sugar since it contains fewer additives.
One tablespoon of tomato paste contains around 13 calories, 0.5 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and 2 grams of sugar. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, iron, and manganese.
One cup of tomato sauce contains around 90 calories, 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fat, 16 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of fiber, and 10 grams of sugar. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and iron. However, some brands of tomato sauce may contain added sugar, salt, or preservatives, so it is important to check the label and choose a high-quality brand.
Cooking with tomato paste
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and richness to a wide range of dishes. Here are some tips for cooking with tomato paste:
- Use tomato paste in dishes that require a deep tomato flavor, such as chili, braised meats, and pasta sauces. It can also be used to add color to a dish, especially if the recipe calls for a darker, richer hue.
- Tomato paste can be added to soups and stews to thicken them and add flavor. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- To dilute tomato paste, mix it with water, broth, or another liquid. Use a 1:1 ratio of tomato paste to liquid.
- Tomato paste can be used as a base for barbecue sauce, pizza sauce, and other sauces. Add other ingredients, such as vinegar, honey, or herbs, to create your desired flavor.
- Store tomato paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Cooking with tomato sauce
Tomato sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Here are some tips for cooking with tomato sauce:
- Use tomato sauce in dishes that require a lighter, fresher tomato flavor, such as marinara sauce, pizza sauce, and tomato-based soups. It can also be used as a base for more complex sauces, such as bolognese or puttanesca sauce.
- If you need to thicken tomato sauce, add tomato paste or cornstarch. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Tomato sauce can be used as a topping for pizza, as a dip for breadsticks or vegetables, or as a condiment for sandwiches and burgers.
- Tomato sauce can be jazzed up with other ingredients, such as garlic, onions, herbs, or spices, to create a unique flavor profile.
- Store tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Making your own tomato paste or sauce
If you want to make your own tomato paste or sauce, it is easier than you might think. Here are some basic recipes to get you started:
Tomato Paste Recipe:
- Start with 5 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes. Roma or San Marzano tomatoes work well.
- Wash and dry the tomatoes, then cut them in half and remove the seeds and cores.
- Spread the tomato halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
- Roast the tomatoes in a 350-degree oven for 2-3 hours, until they are soft and caramelized.
- Let the tomatoes cool, then puree them in a food processor or blender until smooth.
- Pour the puree into a large pot and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the paste has thickened and reduced by at least half.
- Pour the paste into sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Tomato Sauce Recipe:
- Start with 5 pounds of fresh, ripe tomatoes. Roma or San Marzano tomatoes work well.
- Wash and dry the tomatoes, then cut them into quarters.
- In a large pot, sauté diced onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add the tomatoes to the pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they have broken down and released their juices.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth.
- Return the puree to the pot and simmer over low heat for 1-2 hours, until the sauce has thickened and reduced by at least half.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
- Pour the sauce into sterilized jars and store in the refrigerator for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to six months.
Conclusion
In summary, tomato paste and sauce are both valuable ingredients to have in your kitchen. Tomato paste is best used in dishes that require a deep tomato flavor and a thick, rich texture, while tomato sauce is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of dishes. Both have their own nutritional benefits, with tomato paste being higher in vitamins and minerals and lower in calories and sugar. And if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own tomato paste or sauce can be a fun and rewarding kitchen project.
