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Tomato Paste Recipe: A Taste Delight in a Jar

Welcome to the fascinating world of tomato preserves! Making tomato paste is a tradition that has been passed down through generations, bringing a touch of freshness and flavor every winter. This paste is an excellent base for soups, sauces, or cooked dishes, providing them with a rich and authentic taste. Get ready for a culinary adventure full of colors and aromas!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 7 kg ripe tomatoes (preferably Romanian, juicy)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of purchased paste (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of salt
- 0.5 liters of oil (preferably olive oil for a refined taste)
- 1 packet of preservative (or citric acid if you prefer a natural option)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Tomatoes:
Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under a stream of cold water. Remove the stems and, if you like, you can cut them in half to speed up the cooking process. Place them in a large pot, fill it with water, and bring it to a boil. You will notice the tomatoes starting to crack after a few minutes of boiling. This is the perfect time to take them out of the water!

2. Peeling the Tomatoes:
Transfer the tomatoes to cold water to stop the cooking. The skin should peel off easily. Once peeled, put them in a blender or use a food processor to turn them into a fine puree. This step is key to achieving a smooth and tasty paste!

3. Cooking the Paste:
Pour the tomato puree back into the same (clean) pot and place it over high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You will see it start to thicken and reduce. Let it boil until the volume is reduced by about 50%, which can take between 30 and 45 minutes.

4. Adding the Ingredients:
Once the paste has thickened, add the purchased paste (if using), sugar, and salt. These ingredients add a remarkable depth of flavor. Mix well and let it boil together for another 10-15 minutes until the flavors combine perfectly.

5. Adding the Oil:
Now is the time to add the oil. This is not just a preservative ingredient but also brings a velvety texture to the paste. Mix well and let it boil for a few more minutes (3-4 minutes).

6. Preserving:
Remove the pot from the heat and add the preservative packet. Mix well to ensure the ingredient is evenly distributed. Prepare the jars: wash them thoroughly and dry them. Fill the jars with hot paste, leaving a little space at the top. Screw the lid tightly and place the jars upside down on a clean towel or tray. This trick helps seal the jars and prevent contamination.

7. Storage:
Allow the jars to cool completely, then store them in a dark and cool place (like a pantry). Your paste will be ready to use in delicious recipes throughout the winter.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Tomatoes: It is essential to use quality tomatoes, preferably in season. Ripe tomatoes have a higher water and sugar content, making the paste sweeter and more flavorful.
- Flavor Variations: If you want a paste with a more complex flavor, you can add some herbs (basil, oregano) during cooking. These will infuse the paste with superb aromas.
- Substituting Oil: If you prefer a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of oil or use sunflower oil.

Nutritional Benefits:
Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is associated with numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This paste not only enhances the flavor of your dishes but also contributes to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe? It is not recommended, as fresh tomatoes provide superior taste and aroma.
- How long does the paste last? If properly preserved, the paste can last up to a year. Always check the seal and appearance of the jars before use.
- What can I do with the paste? You can use the tomato paste as a base for soups, pasta sauces, meat dishes, or even for pizza.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the tomato paste in various dishes, alongside fresh pasta, rice, or vegetables. A delicious idea is to use it as a base for a vegetable soup, adding carrots, celery, and fresh parsley. You can also create a simple pasta sauce by adding garlic, basil, and grated parmesan.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I wish you happy cooking! Making tomato paste can be a pleasant and comforting activity, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the process!