Tomato puree and tomato paste are stapled ingredients in many kitchens around the world. They are often used as the base for sauces, soups, and stews, and can add a depth of flavor and richness to many dishes. But what is the difference between tomato puree and paste, and which one should you use?
In this article, we will explore the characteristics, nutritional content, flavor profile, texture, shelf life, cooking techniques, and cost of both tomato puree and tomato paste, to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.
What is Tomato Puree?
Tomato puree is a thick, smooth liquid that is made from fresh tomatoes that have been cooked and strained to remove the skin and seeds. It is typically used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews, and can also be used as a topping for pizza, pasta, or other dishes. Tomato puree is often sold in cans or jars and can be found in most grocery stores.
To make tomato puree, fresh tomatoes are first washed and then blanched in boiling water to loosen the skin. The skin is then removed, and the tomatoes are cooked in a pot until they break down into a thick liquid. The mixture is then strained to remove any seeds or remaining skin, resulting in a smooth, silky puree.
Tomato puree is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. It is also low in calories, with only about 50 calories per cup.
What is Tomato Paste?
Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato flavor that is made by cooking fresh tomatoes down to a thick paste. It is often used to add depth and richness to sauces, stews, and soups, and can also be used as a flavoring for meat dishes. Tomato paste is sold in cans or tubes and can be found in most grocery stores.
To make tomato paste, fresh tomatoes are washed and then cooked down in a pot until they become thick and pulpy. The mixture is then strained to remove any seeds or skin, resulting in a concentrated tomato flavor that is thick and intense.
Tomato paste is high in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. It is also low in calories, with only about 50 calories per 2 tablespoons.
Comparison of Tomato Puree vs Tomato Paste
Nutritional Comparison
When it comes to nutritional content, both tomato puree and tomato paste are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. They are both low in calories, making them a healthy addition to any diet. However, there are some differences between the two.
Tomato puree is lower in sodium than tomato paste, with only about 25 milligrams of sodium per cup, compared to about 260 milligrams per 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Tomato paste is also higher in sugar than tomato puree, with about 6 grams of sugar per 2 tablespoons, compared to about 3 grams of sugar per cup of tomato puree.
Both tomato puree and tomato paste are high in antioxidants, which help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. They are also both high in fiber, which can help to improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels.
Flavor Profile
One of the biggest differences between tomato puree and tomato paste is their flavor profile. Tomato puree has a lighter, more delicate flavor, while tomato paste is much more intense and concentrated. Tomato puree can be used as a base for a variety of dishes, while tomato paste is typically used as a flavoring for meat dishes, sauces, and stews.
Tomato puree has a slightly sweet, tangy flavor, with a smooth, silky texture. It is often used in dishes where the tomato flavor should be subtle, such as in soups or lighter pasta sauces. It can also be used as a base for marinades or as a topping for pizza.
Tomato paste, on the other hand, has a deep, rich flavor that is more robust than tomato puree. Its concentrated flavor makes it perfect for adding depth to dishes like chili or beef stews. Tomato paste also has a thicker consistency than tomato puree, which makes it perfect for use as a spread on bread or as a thickener for sauces.
Texture and Consistency
Another significant difference between tomato puree and tomato paste is their texture and consistency. Tomato puree is a thinner, more liquid consistency than tomato paste, which is thicker and more concentrated.
The thinner consistency of tomato puree makes it perfect for use in dishes where a lighter tomato flavor is desired. It also works well as a base for lighter sauces or soups. In contrast, the thicker consistency of tomato paste makes it an excellent addition to thicker, heartier dishes like stews, casseroles, and chili.
When using tomato puree in a recipe that calls for tomato paste, it’s important to remember that the thin consistency of the puree may affect the overall texture of the dish. Adding a thickener, like cornstarch or flour, can help to compensate for this.
Shelf Life and Storage
Both tomato puree and tomato paste have relatively long shelf lives when stored properly. Tomato puree can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days once opened, while tomato paste can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks once opened. Both can also be frozen for longer storage.
To store tomato puree or tomato paste, it’s best to transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze it as soon as possible after opening. Exposure to air can cause the products to spoil more quickly, so it’s important to keep them tightly sealed.
It’s also important to note that the flavor and texture of tomato puree and tomato paste may change over time, especially if they are not stored properly. It’s always best to use them before their expiration date for optimal flavor and texture.
Cooking Techniques
Both tomato puree and tomato paste can be used in a variety of cooking techniques. Tomato puree works well as a base for lighter sauces, soups, or stews, while tomato paste is perfect for adding depth and richness to heartier dishes like chili or beef stews.
Tomato puree can also be used as a topping for pizza or as a base for marinades, while tomato paste works well as a flavoring for meat dishes or as a spread on bread.
When using tomato puree or tomato paste in a recipe, it’s essential to adjust the amount used to achieve the desired flavor and consistency. It’s also important to remember that the flavor of tomato paste is more concentrated than tomato puree, so a little goes a long way.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to cost, there is a difference between tomato puree and tomato paste. Tomato paste is typically more expensive than tomato puree due to its more concentrated flavor and thicker consistency.
However, the cost of tomato puree and tomato paste can vary depending on the brand, size, and location. It’s always best to compare prices to find the best value for your needs.
When choosing between tomato puree and tomato paste, cost should not be the only consideration. The flavor, texture, and intended use of the product should also be taken into account.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both tomato puree and tomato paste have their unique characteristics, nutritional content, flavor profile, texture, shelf life, cooking techniques, and cost. Whether you choose tomato puree or tomato paste depends on the dish you are making and the flavor profile you are trying to achieve.
Tomato puree is perfect for dishes where a lighter tomato flavor is desired, such as in soups or lighter pasta sauces. It also works well as a base for marinades or as a topping for pizza. On the other hand, tomato paste is more robust in flavor and thicker in consistency, making it perfect for adding depth to dishes like chili or beef stews. It can also be used as a spread on bread or as a thickener for sauces.
When using tomato puree or tomato paste in a recipe, it’s important to adjust the amount used to achieve the desired flavor and consistency. It’s also important to remember that the flavor of tomato paste is more concentrated than tomato puree, so a little goes a long way.
In terms of nutritional content, both tomato puree and tomato paste are rich in nutrients like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium. However, tomato paste has a higher concentration of these nutrients due to its more concentrated form.
When it comes to shelf life and storage, both tomato puree and tomato paste can be stored in the refrigerator for several days or frozen for longer storage. It’s important to transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze them as soon as possible after opening them to prevent spoilage.
Finally, while cost is a consideration, it should not be the only factor when choosing between tomato puree and tomato paste. The intended use of the product and the desired flavor profile should also be taken into account.
In summary, both tomato puree and tomato paste have their unique characteristics and uses in the kitchen. Choosing the right product for your dish can enhance the flavor and texture of your food and take it to the next level. Whether you prefer the light, subtle flavor of tomato puree or the robust, concentrated flavor of tomato paste, incorporating these versatile tomato products into your cooking can elevate your meals and add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your dishes.
