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+ servings

Homemade Tomato Paste

A rich and concentrated tomato paste made from fresh tomatoes, perfect for enhancing the flavor of your dishes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 tablespoons
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 15

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Roma tomatoes Ripe and fresh, for best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt To enhance flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Optional, for richness.

Method
 

Prepare the Tomatoes
  1. Wash the Roma tomatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
  2. Remove the stems and cut the tomatoes in half lengthwise.
  3. Place the halved tomatoes in a large pot and sprinkle with salt. This will help draw out moisture during cooking.
Cook the Tomatoes
  1. Cook the tomatoes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are soft and have released their juices.
  2. Once softened, remove the pot from heat and allow the tomatoes to cool slightly.
Blend the Tomatoes
  1. Using a blender or food processor, puree the cooked tomatoes until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less.
  2. Pass the pureed tomatoes through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds and skins, ensuring a smooth paste.
Concentrate the Tomato Paste
  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Spread the strained tomato puree evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the mixture is thick and reduced to a paste-like consistency.
Store the Tomato Paste
  1. Once the tomato paste has thickened, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
  2. Transfer the cooled tomato paste to a glass jar or airtight container. Drizzle with olive oil on top to help preserve it.
  3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 15kcalCarbohydrates: 3gSodium: 50mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This homemade tomato paste is a great way to use up excess tomatoes and can be used in various recipes to enhance flavor. Adjust the salt according to your taste preference.

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