Aromatic tomato paste

Flavored Tomato Paste – a simple and delicious recipe for winter

Who doesn’t love the unmistakable aroma of fresh tomatoes? Whether used in salads, sauces, or cooked dishes, tomatoes have a special place in any kitchen. However, as the tomato season comes to an end, it is essential to find ways to preserve this delicacy for the cold winter days. This is where our flavored tomato paste recipe comes in, an excellent solution to transform tomatoes that are at risk of spoiling into a versatile ingredient that will add flavor to many dishes.

In this guide, I will accompany you step by step in preparing this tomato paste, providing you with useful tips and details about the ingredients, as well as ways to use it.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars, depending on their size

Ingredients

- Approximately 3 kg ripe tomatoes (choose quality tomatoes, free from spots or mold)
- 2 large onions, diced
- A handful of fresh basil, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

A Brief History

Tomato paste has a long story, being used in kitchens around the world for centuries. It not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also helps preserve tomatoes, allowing them to last longer. Originally, tomato paste was made at home, and many families have secret recipes passed down from generation to generation. By preparing this paste, you will not only bring a touch of tradition into your kitchen, but you will also benefit from a healthy ingredient, rich in vitamins.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by washing the tomatoes under a stream of cold water. Then, place a large pot of water to boil. When the water reaches boiling point, add the tomatoes and let them boil for 2-3 minutes. This step will help remove the skin, making the preparation process much easier. After that, remove the tomatoes and let them cool for a few minutes on a rack or on a towel.

2. Peeling the tomatoes: Once the tomatoes have cooled, the skin will easily come off. Cut the tomatoes in half and remove the seeds if you want a smoother paste. This step is not mandatory, but it can help achieve a more homogeneous paste.

3. The blender: Place the peeled tomatoes in a blender, adding the diced onion. Blend everything until you obtain a fine paste. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can leave some small chunks.

4. Cooking the paste: Transfer the obtained paste into a large pot, add the chopped basil, salt, and sugar. Mix well and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. The paste will reduce and thicken, and the flavors will intensify.

5. Checking the consistency: After 90 minutes, check the consistency of the paste. It should be thick and have an intense taste of tomatoes and basil. If it seems too acidic, add another teaspoon of sugar.

6. Bottling: When the tomato paste is ready, let it cool slightly, then pour it into clean, dry jars. Make sure to leave about 1 cm of space above the paste. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. The flavored tomato paste can be kept for several months, but I assure you it won't last too long, considering how versatile it is!

Useful Tips

- Suitable tomatoes: Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes, preferably from local sources. Roma tomatoes are excellent for making paste due to their high meat content.
- Variations: You can add other herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to customize the flavor of the paste. Additionally, garlic added during cooking will provide a wonderful aroma.
- Using the paste: The flavored tomato paste is perfect for pizza sauces, soups, stews, or to season meat dishes. You can also use it to make a quick pasta sauce by mixing it with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits

Tomato paste is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps combat free radicals and has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, contributing to a balanced diet.

Delicious Combinations

To complement this recipe, I suggest trying a fresh mozzarella and basil salad, which fits perfectly into the Italian theme. A craft beer or a dry red wine could be the ideal accompaniment for a meal where tomato paste is the star.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze the paste?: Yes, the tomato paste can be frozen in airtight containers. Make sure to leave space for expansion.
2. How can I tell if the paste is spoiled?: Check the smell and appearance. If you notice mold or an unpleasant smell, it’s best not to take the risk and throw it away.
3. What can I do with leftover tomatoes?: Use them in soups, sauces, or even to make a tomato salad with onion and olive oil.

I hope this flavored tomato paste recipe will become an essential part of your kitchen! Not only is it easy to prepare, but it will also add a touch of freshness and flavor to your dishes throughout the winter. Enjoy your meal!