Best Substitutes For Tomato Paste

If you find yourself in a situation where you need a substitute for tomato paste, don’t worry! There are several alternatives that can provide a similar flavor and texture to your dishes. From tomato sauce to sun-dried tomatoes, this article will guide you through the best substitutes for tomato paste and how to use them in your recipes.

Key Takeaways

• Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato product that adds depth and richness to a wide range of dishes.
• Tomato sauce, tomato puree, canned diced tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes are some of the best substitutes for tomato paste.
• When choosing a substitute, consider the flavor, texture, and acidity level required for your recipe.
• Adjust the quantity of the substitute based on its concentration and thickness to achieve the desired taste and consistency in your dishes.

Why You Need A Substitute For Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a staple ingredient in many cuisines. It adds a deep and rich tomato flavor to sauces, stews, soups, and other dishes. However, there may be instances when you run out of tomato paste or simply don’t have it on hand. In such cases, having a substitute for tomato paste can save the day.

Moreover, tomato paste has a concentrated form that is too intense to be used directly as a replacement for fresh tomatoes. Its thick consistency and concentrated flavor can overpower a dish if used in large quantities. Using a substitute can help you achieve a milder and more balanced tomato flavor in your recipes.

Types Of Substitutes For Tomato Paste

There are several types of substitutes for tomato paste that you can use in your recipes. The best substitute will depend on the flavor profile, texture, and acidity level needed in your dish. Here are some popular alternatives to consider:

1. Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce has a thin and liquid consistency, but it can be used as a substitute for tomato paste in many recipes. While the flavor is not as concentrated, you can simmer tomato sauce to reduce its moisture content and intensify the flavor. Keep in mind that you may need to use a larger quantity of tomato sauce compared to tomato paste to achieve the desired taste.

2. Tomato Puree: Tomato puree is thicker than tomato sauce but not as concentrated as tomato paste. It is made from strained tomatoes, giving it a smooth texture and a mild flavor. When using tomato puree as a substitute, you may need to simmer it for a longer time to evaporate excess water.

3. Canned Diced Tomatoes: If your recipe allows for a chunkier texture, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute for tomato paste. Drain the liquid from the tomatoes and blend them until smooth. The resulting puree can be used in place of tomato paste, but keep in mind that it will add some moisture to your dish.

4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes are intensely flavored and have a chewy texture. They can be used as a substitute for tomato paste by blending them with a little water or oil until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth of flavor to your dishes and work particularly well in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.

Best Substitutes For Tomato Paste

Now that we have discussed the different types of substitutes, let’s explore some of the best options for tomato paste alternatives:

1. Tomato Sauce

Flavor: Mild tomato flavor with a slightly thinner consistency than tomato paste.

Acidity: Moderate acidity, similar to tomato paste.

Texture: Thin and liquid, less concentrated than tomato paste.

Pro Tip: When using tomato sauce as a substitute for tomato paste, simmer it on low heat for 15-20 minutes to reduce its moisture content and thicken the consistency. This will help intensify the flavor and mimic the concentrated nature of tomato paste.

2. Tomato Puree

Flavor: Smooth and mild tomato flavor, slightly thicker than tomato sauce.

Acidity: Moderate acidity, similar to tomato paste.

Texture: Thicker than tomato sauce but less concentrated than tomato paste.

Pro Tip: If the recipe calls for a deep and rich tomato flavor, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity and enhance the sweetness of the tomato puree. This will help replicate the flavor profile of tomato paste.

3. Canned Diced Tomatoes

Flavor: Tangy and slightly sweet tomato flavor, with a chunky texture.

Acidity: Moderate to high acidity, may need to adjust accordingly.

Texture: Chunky with some moisture content.

Pro Tip: To achieve a paste-like consistency, drain the liquid from the canned diced tomatoes and blend them until smooth. You can also simmer the puree for a while to reduce excess moisture, if desired.

4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Flavor: Intensely flavored, with a sweet and tangy taste and a chewy texture.

Acidity: Moderate acidity, similar to tomato paste.

Texture: Chewy and concentrated, needs to be blended with water or oil for a paste-like consistency.

Pro Tip: When using sun-dried tomatoes as a substitute, rehydrate them in hot water or oil to soften before blending. This will enhance their flavor and texture, making them more suitable as a replacement for tomato paste.

Choosing The Right Substitute For Tomato Paste

When selecting a substitute for tomato paste, consider the flavor, texture, and acidity level required in your recipe. It’s important to have an understanding of how each substitute will affect the overall taste and consistency of your dish.

If you’re looking for a milder tomato flavor and don’t mind a slightly thinner consistency, tomato sauce or tomato puree can be excellent options. These substitutes are readily available and versatile in a wide range of recipes.

On the other hand, if you prefer a chunkier texture or want to add an intense depth of flavor, canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can be the perfect substitutes. Keep in mind that both of these options may add some moisture to your dish, which can be adjusted by draining excess liquid or simmering to evaporate excess water.

Cooking With Substitutes For Tomato Paste

When using substitutes for tomato paste, it’s essential to adjust the quantity based on the concentration and thickness of the substitute. Start by using half the amount of substitute called for in the original recipe and then taste and adjust as needed. You can always add more, but it’s difficult to undo an overpowering tomato flavor.

Also, keep in mind that the moisture content of substitutes such as tomato sauce, tomato puree, and canned diced tomatoes may affect the overall consistency of your dish. If you find that the dish becomes too watery, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to thicken the sauce.

Recipes Using Substitutes For Tomato Paste

Now let’s explore some delicious recipes where you can use these substitutes for tomato paste:

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

• Substitute: Tomato sauce
• Quantity: Start with 1 cup of tomato sauce for every 1/4 cup of tomato paste.

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or a meat substitute until browned.
2. Add diced onions, garlic, and seasonings of your choice.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.

2. Chicken Cacciatore

• Substitute: Canned diced tomatoes
• Quantity: Drain the liquid from one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes and blend until smooth.

1. Heat oil in a large pan and sauté chicken pieces until browned.
2. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened.
4. Add the blended diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve with pasta or rice.

3. Eggplant Parmesan

• Substitute: Tomato puree
• Quantity: Start with 1 cup of tomato puree for every 1/4 cup of tomato paste.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Dip each slice in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Bake the eggplant slices on a greased baking sheet for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
5. In a saucepan, combine tomato puree, garlic, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Layer the baked eggplant slices in a baking dish, pour the tomato puree sauce over the top, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot with a side of pasta or salad.

Storage And Shelf Life Of Substitutes

If you have leftover tomato sauce, tomato puree, canned diced tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes after using them as a substitute for tomato paste, you can store them for later use. Here are some guidelines for storing these substitutes:

• Tomato Sauce: Store leftover tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Tomato Puree: Tomato puree can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Transfer any remaining canned diced tomatoes to a lidded container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Store leftover sun-dried tomatoes in a jar or air-tight container, covered with oil, in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

When you don’t have tomato paste on hand, there are several alternatives that can provide a similar flavor and texture to your dishes. Tomato sauce, tomato puree, canned diced tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes all make excellent substitutes for tomato paste. By choosing the right substitute and adjusting the quantity and cooking time, you can still achieve delicious and flavorful results in your recipes. So don’t fret if you run out of tomato paste – these substitutes have got you covered!

FAQS

What Are Some Tomato Paste Substitutes?

Some of the best tomato paste substitutes include canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato puree, ketchup, and sundried tomatoes.

Can Canned Tomatoes Be Used As A Substitute For Tomato Paste?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato paste. However, you will need to puree the canned tomatoes in a blender or food processor before using them.

Can Tomato Sauce Be Used Instead Of Tomato Paste?

Yes, tomato sauce can be used instead of tomato paste. However, you will need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by about half.

What Is The Difference Between Tomato Paste And Tomato Puree?

Tomato paste is thicker and more concentrated than tomato puree. Tomato puree is made from cooked and strained tomatoes, while tomato paste is made by cooking tomatoes down until they form a thick paste.

Are Sundried Tomatoes A Good Substitute For Tomato Paste?

Yes, sundried tomatoes are a good substitute for tomato paste. They have a concentrated tomato flavor and can be rehydrated with water or oil before using them in a recipe.

Sources

Easy Substitutes for Tomato Paste – Southern Living

The 14 Absolute Best Tomato Paste Substitutes – Tasting Table

10 Tomato Paste Substitutes (Best Alternatives) – Insanely Good