Homemade Tomato Paste
A delicious and versatile ingredient that adds a burst of flavor to many dishes, made with just fresh tomatoes and a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Add more to taste if desired.
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust salt to taste.
Optional ingredients
- herbs (e.g., basil, oregano) Incorporate during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and core the tomatoes.
- Cut them into quarters and place them in a large pot.
Cooking
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
- Pass the cooked tomatoes through a food mill or fine sieve to remove the skins and seeds.
- Return the smooth tomato puree to the pot and simmer on low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 30 minutes to an hour.
- Add olive oil and salt to taste.
- If desired, incorporate herbs during the last few minutes of cooking.
Storage
- Let cool and store in jars in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
Notes
Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. For a richer taste, roast the tomatoes before cooking them down. Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your paste.