3-Ingredient Tomato Paste with Fresh Tomatoes
Making your own tomato paste at home is a simple and rewarding process. With just three basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and rich tomato paste that enhances many of your favorite recipes. This tomato paste is perfect for sauces, soups, and stews, adding freshness and flavor to your dishes.
Why Make This Recipe
Making tomato paste from fresh tomatoes allows you to control the flavor and quality of your ingredients. Store-bought tomato paste can often contain preservatives and additives, but making it yourself means pure, clean flavors. Plus, using fresh tomatoes means you’re getting the best possible taste.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Tomato Paste with Fresh Tomatoes
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds roma or plum tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Slice the tomatoes in half.
- Put the tomatoes and garlic in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Depending on the size of your food processor, you might have to do this in batches.
- Pour the tomato mixture into a large pot, add the salt, and stir.
- Place the pot on medium-high heat on the stove and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, turn down the heat to low and let it simmer.
- Cover and cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes turn into a paste and all the liquid is gone.
- Use the tomato paste immediately, place it in the refrigerator to use within a couple of days, or pour it into ice cube trays to freeze. Once frozen, pop the cubes out and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Tomato Paste with Fresh Tomatoes
You can use this homemade tomato paste in various dishes. Try adding it to pasta sauces, soups, or even pizza. It’s a great way to add depth and richness to your meals. You can also mix it with olive oil, herbs, or spices to create a flavorful sauce.
How to Store 3-Ingredient Tomato Paste with Fresh Tomatoes
If you plan to use the tomato paste soon, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last for a couple of days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the paste in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag, and they will be ready for your next cooking session.
Tips to Make 3-Ingredient Tomato Paste with Fresh Tomatoes
- Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
- Stir the paste occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Feel free to experiment with added spices or herbs for different flavors.
Variation
You can add herbs like basil or oregano to the mixture if you want a more complex flavor. Fresh or dried herbs will enhance the taste of your tomato paste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use different types of tomatoes, but roma or plum tomatoes work best because they have low moisture content.
Q: How long does the tomato paste last in the freezer?
A: The tomato paste can last in the freezer for up to 6 months when stored properly.
Q: Can I make a smaller batch of tomato paste?
A: Yes, you can easily adjust the quantities to make a smaller batch according to your needs. Just maintain the same ratios of tomatoes, garlic, and salt.
Now you have a simple and delicious recipe for homemade tomato paste! Enjoy cooking with this fresh and flavorful ingredient.
Tomato Paste
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds roma or plum tomatoes Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the tomatoes in half.
- Put the tomatoes and garlic in a food processor and pulse until smooth, depending on the size of your food processor, you might have to do this in batches.
Cooking
- Pour the tomato mixture into a large pot, add the salt, and stir.
- Place the pot on medium-high heat on the stove and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, turn down the heat to low and let it simmer for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes turn into a paste and all the liquid is gone.
Serving and Storage
- Use the tomato paste immediately, or place it in the refrigerator to use within a couple of days.
- Alternatively, pour it into ice cube trays to freeze. Once frozen, pop the cubes out and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
