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