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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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 tablespoons
Calories 15 kcal

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.

Instructions
 

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.

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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 15kcalCarbohydrates: 3gSodium: 50mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg
Keyword homemade, Sauce, Tomato Paste
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