Tomato paste sauce

Tomato paste sauce is a staple in many cuisines worldwide, serving as a base for countless dishes. Its history can be traced back to the cuisines of Italy and the Mediterranean, where tomatoes were embraced after being introduced from the Americas. This concentrated sauce is celebrated for its rich, deep flavor and versatility. It can be used as a foundation for pasta sauces, pizza toppings, stews, and more. The essence of making a delicious tomato paste sauce lies in its simplicity, allowing the tomato’s natural flavors to shine through while being enhanced by a careful selection of herbs and spices.

• In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
• Stir in the tomato paste to the saucepan, mixing well with the onions and garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes, then gradually add the water or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to ensure the tomato paste fully dissolves into a smooth sauce.
• Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. If the tomatoes are acidic, a bit of sugar can be added to balance out the flavors. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer over low heat, allowing it to cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will concentrate.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Your tomato paste sauce is now ready to be served with your favorite pasta, used as a pizza base, or incorporated into other dishes.

Storage Tips

Tomato paste sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning and used within 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or reheat directly in a saucepan over low heat.

Useful Properties of the Main Ingredient

Tomato paste is a concentrated source of lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart health benefits and potential to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. It’s also rich in vitamins C, K, and minerals like potassium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Interesting Facts about the Sauce

• The process of concentrating tomatoes into a paste dates back to the 18th century in Italy, where tomatoes were sun-dried in ceramic or wooden trays to preserve their flavor.
• Tomato paste sauce is a fundamental component in the culinary traditions of many cultures, showcasing the global love affair with the tomato.
• The simplicity of the tomato paste sauce belies its importance in providing depth and richness to dishes, demonstrating that great flavor often comes from humble beginnings.

This tomato paste sauce recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients to create a deeply flavorful and versatile component that elevates a wide variety of dishes.