Rethinking Tomato Paste: The Case Against Using It as a Substitute for Fresh Tomatoes Tomato paste is a staple in many home cooks' pantries, used to add depth and richness to sauces, soups, and stews.
Its convenience and concentrated flavor make it an attractive alternative to fresh tomatoes, but its limitations often lead to unbalanced flavor profiles and texture issues.
Understanding the Purpose of Tomato Paste Tomato paste is made by cooking down fresh or canned tomatoes with minimal added salt and water until they reach a thick, spreadable consistency.