Tomato paste is an essential pantry staple for many home cooks.
Made from cooked, strained tomatoes, tomato paste lends rich, concentrated tomato flavor and color to sauces, soups, stews, and more.
With just a spoonful or two, tomato paste can transform a dish, adding sweetness, acidity, and savory depth.
Tuscanini Tomato Paste (Pack of 2)
Tuscanini tomato paste offers an exceptionally rich, authentic Italian tomato flavor that's perfect for enhancing pasta sauces, soups, stews, and more. Made from premium Italian tomatoes grown in the Mediterranean, this thick, concentrated paste has a smooth, tangy taste.
Unlike some pastes that use paste tomatoes or tomato powder, Tuscanini only uses fresh, ripe tomatoes picked at peak flavor. This results in a bright, sweet tomato taste with vibrant red color. The paste is double concentrated, meaning more tomatoes go into each serving for even more intense tomato taste.
With just two main ingredients - tomatoes and citric acid - Tuscanini paste has no preservatives, thickeners, or other additives. It's non-GMO, gluten free, and suitable for many diets including vegetarian.
Key features:
- Made with premium Italian tomatoes
- Double concentrated for rich flavor
- Just two simple ingredients
- No preservatives or additives
Pros:
- Intense, authentic tomato taste
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Bright red color looks appetizing
- Easy squeeze tube preserves freshness
Cons:
- More expensive than some pastes
- Only available in smaller tubes
Contadina Canned Tomato Paste (Pack of 12)
With Contadina canned tomato paste, you can easily make delicious homemade Italian dishes like chicken parmesan, meatballs, or pasta sauce. This tomato paste offers a tangy, smooth texture and concentrated tomato flavor.
Made from vine-ripened Roma tomatoes, the paste contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's non-GMO and packaged in BPA-free cans. The paste versatility makes it useful for soups, pizza sauce, chili, baked ziti, and more.
A single 6-ounce can contains about 5 servings of tomato paste. The small serving size means you can use just what you need for recipes without waste. The cans stack neatly and have a 1-year shelf life unopened.
Key features:
- Made from vine-ripened tomatoes
- No artificial ingredients
- Non-GMO and BPA-free cans
- 5 servings per 6-oz can
Pros:
- Versatile for many recipes
- Tangy, bold tomato taste
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Handy pop-top cans
Cons:
- Cans are prone to denting
- Must use quickly once opened
Contadina Canned Tomato Paste (Pack of 12)
Making homemade Italian pasta sauces, pizzas, and more is easy with Contadina's canned tomato paste. This tomato puree has a bold, tangy taste and smooth texture perfect for boosting flavor.
The paste is made using vine-ripened Roma tomatoes and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Every 12-ounce can is non-GMO and packaged in BPA-free cans. With about 10 servings per can, a little goes a long way.
Contadina tomato paste works well in place of crushed tomatoes in recipes. The thick consistency makes it useful for turning into pizza or pasta sauce. It also adds richness to soups, stews, chili, and baked dishes like lasagna.
Key features:
- Made from vine-ripened tomatoes
- 10 servings per 12-oz can
- No artificial ingredients
- Non-GMO and BPA-free
Pros:
- Bold, tangy tomato taste
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Handy pop-top cans
- Versatile for cooking
Cons:
- Prone to dents during shipping
- Shorter shelf life after opening
Happy Belly Tomato Paste (Pack of 2)
Happy Belly Tomato Paste offers a convenient way to add tomato flavor to recipes without the waste of whole canned tomatoes. This tomato paste provides rich, concentrated tomato taste in a smooth, spreadable texture.
Made from tomato pulp, it contains no preservatives, artificial flavors, or colors. The paste is vegetarian, non-GMO, and packaged in BPA-free cans. Each 6-ounce can has about 5 servings of tomato paste.
Use Happy Belly paste to create tomato sauces, chilis, meatballs, soups, stews, and more. A little goes a long way thanks to its thick, concentrated texture. It also makes homemade pizza and pasta sauce quick and easy.
Key features:
- Made from tomato pulp
- 5 servings per can
- No preservatives or additives
- Non-GMO and BPA-free
Pros:
- Intense tomato taste
- Smooth, spreadable texture
- Adds richness without waste
- Versatile for cooking
Cons:
- Short shelf life after opening
- Prone to denting during shipment
Hunt's Tomato Paste (Pack of 12)
Hunt's no-salt-added tomato paste lets you boost flavor without extra sodium. Made from vine-ripened tomatoes, it has a naturally thick, rich texture. The paste is cooked down and concentrated for bold tomato taste.
With no added salt or sugar, this paste fits low-sodium diets without compromising on flavor. Use it to make lower-sodium soups, stews, chili, pasta sauce, and more. It also works well for thickening and enriching sauces.
Packed in 6-ounce cans with pop-tops for easy opening, each can contains about 5 servings of paste. Hunt's tomato paste contains no artificial preservatives or ingredients.
Key features:
- No added salt or sugar
- Made from vine-ripened tomatoes
- 5 servings per 6-oz can
- 100% natural ingredients
Pros:
- Rich, bold tomato flavor
- Naturally thick texture
- Handy pop-top cans
- Low sodium option
Cons:
- Prone to dents during shipping
- Short shelf life after opening
Tuscanini Organic Tomato Paste Tube (2 Pack)
Tuscanini Organic Tomato Paste is a high-quality tomato paste made from 100% Italian tomatoes grown organically without GMOs. The tomato paste comes in a convenient squeeze tube that allows you to use just the amount you need.
The organic tomato paste has an incredibly rich, sweet tomato flavor. Unlike some pastes that taste acidic or bitter, this one is naturally sweet like sun-dried tomatoes. Just a small amount adds big tomato flavor to sauces, stews, soups and more.
A squeeze tube is perfect for recipes that call for a tablespoon or two of tomato paste. No need to open a can and struggle to store leftovers that often go bad. The tube keeps the paste fresher longer right in the fridge. The paste stays smooth too, while canned paste can dry into a brick.
Key features:
- 100% organic Italian tomatoes
- Naturally sweet, rich tomato flavor
- Convenient squeeze tube
Pros:
- Keeps leftover paste fresher longer
- Allows using just needed amount
- Provides delicious flavor
Cons:
- More expensive than canned paste
Tuscanini Italian Basil Tomato Paste Tube (2 Pack)
The Tuscanini Basil Tomato Paste adds incredible flavor to recipes with its double dose of tomato and basil. Made from 100% Italian tomatoes, the tomato paste has an authentically rich, sweet flavor. The added fresh basil provides a wonderful accent.
A little dollop of this basil tomato paste can transform a basic pasta dish or sauce into something sensational. The convenience of the squeeze tube makes it easy to use just the right amount needed for a recipe. There's no waste from a partially used can.
The paste has a noticeably more intense taste than plain tomato paste in a can. The fresh basil adds a real Italian flair. Together the tomato and basil make an unbeatable flavor combo that enhances meats, vegetables, pasta and more.
Key features:
- 100% Italian tomatoes
- Added fresh basil
- Squeeze tube convenience
Pros:
- Intensifies flavor of dishes
- Eliminates waste from open cans
- Provides authentic Italian taste
Cons:
- Costs more than plain tomato paste
Cento Tomato Paste Tube (12 Pack)
Cento Tomato Paste in a squeeze tube makes cooking so much easier. The paste has an incredibly rich, deep tomato flavor perfect for sauces, stews and soups. The tube allows using just the amount needed so none goes to waste.
This tomato paste has a noticeably stronger taste than cheaper brands in cans. Just a dollop adds loads of flavor. The smooth, thick consistency integrates seamlessly into recipes. A little goes a long way to create depth of texture and taste.
The tube is so convenient for recipes needing just a tablespoon or two of paste. No more struggling with partial cans that quickly go bad in the fridge. The tube keeps the tomato paste fresh far longer after opening. It's always smooth too, never hardened like in a can.
Key features:
- Rich, intense tomato flavor
- Smooth, thick consistency
- Convenient squeeze tube
Pros:
- Allows using small amounts needed
- Keeps paste fresher longer
- Provides delicious tomato flavor
Cons:
- More costly than canned paste
Cento Organic Tomato Paste Tube (2 Pack)
The Cento Organic Tomato Paste has an exceptionally fresh, sweet tomato taste. The organic Italian tomatoes create a noticeably richer, more intense flavor than regular tomato paste. The convenient tube packaging is perfect for recipes needing just a small amount.
This organic paste has a thicker, smoother consistency than cheaper brands. Just a teaspoon can provide big tomato flavor. The taste elevates sauces, stews, soups and more. A little goes a long way to create depth and dimension of flavor.
The squeeze tube allows using precisely what you need. No more leftover paste drying into a useless brick after opening a can. The tube keeps the tomato paste fresher far longer in the fridge. It stays smoothly spreadable too, not hardened like in a can.
Key features:
- Organic Italian tomatoes
- Naturally sweet, rich flavor
- Squeeze tube convenience
Pros:
- Allows using only needed amount
- Keeps leftover paste fresh longer
- Provides delicious tomato taste
Cons:
- Costs more than non-organic paste
Mutti Organic Tomato Paste Tube (3 Pack)
Mutti Organic Tomato Paste is made from fresh organic Italian tomatoes. This tomato paste has an incredibly rich, sweet flavor that brings recipes to life. The convenient squeeze tube lets you use precisely the amount needed.
Unlike some pastes that taste metallic or bitter, this one is naturally sweet with a rich tomato essence. Just a dollop can make sauces and stews pop with flavor. The smooth, thick consistency seamlessly integrates into recipes. A little goes a long way to add taste and texture.
The tube is perfect for recipes needing just a tablespoon or two of paste. No more struggling to store and reuse a partially used can. The tube keeps the tomato paste fresh far longer after opening. The paste stays smoothly spreadable, not hardened like in cans.
Key features:
- Organic Italian tomatoes
- Sweet, rich tomato flavor
- Squeeze tube convenience
Pros:
- Allows using only needed amount
- Keeps leftover paste fresher longer
- Adds delicious flavor
Cons:
- More expensive than non-organic brands
Buying Guide for Tomato Paste
When selecting tomato paste at the grocery store, there are a few main factors to consider:
Type of Tomato Paste
There are a few main forms of tomato paste available:
- Canned Tomato Paste - The most common type, canned tomato paste is cooked and strained tomato product packaged in cans or Tetra Pak boxes. Canned tomato paste has a thick, spreadable consistency. It typically comes in small 6 ounce cans up to large 28-30 ounce cans. Canned tomato paste keeps 1-2 years unopened.
- Tube Tomato Paste - Tomato paste packaged in tubes or squeeze bottles provides portion control and convenience. Tube tomato paste has a stiff, dense consistency that requires squeezing out of the tube. It does not require refrigeration until opened. Tube tomato paste is useful for recipes that only call for a tablespoon or two.
- Dehydrated Tomato Paste - Also called concentrated tomato powder, dehydrated tomato paste comes in a dried, granulated powder. It usually comes in jars or resealable pouches. Dehydrated tomato paste is shelf-stable and space-saving, as the tomato water has been completely removed. Keep in mind it has a more intense flavor.
Ingredients
Check the ingredient list when selecting tomato paste. The only ingredient should be tomatoes. Some brands may add citric acid or calcium chloride as preservatives. Avoid tomato pastes with added sugar, starch, flour, flavors, or other unnecessary additives.
Tomato Style
Some tomato paste labels indicate if a specific tomato variety was used, such as San Marzano. San Marzano tomatoes are a high-quality Italian variety prized for their sweet flavor. Tomato paste made from these tomatoes will have a more distinct, nuanced taste. However, there is no standard regulation for labeling tomato varieties, so these claims are not always reliable. Taste different brands to find a flavor you prefer.
Organic
Organic tomato paste is produced from organically grown tomatoes without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Organic tomato paste typically costs a bit more but is a smart choice for cooks wanting to reduce chemical exposure and support sustainable agriculture. Conventional non-organic tomato paste may contain pesticide residues, so organic is ideal for foods you eat often.
Added Ingredients
Some tomato paste contains extras like basil, garlic, or oregano for additional flavor. Added ingredients can enhance certain dishes but limit the tomato paste's versatility. Plain tomato paste works best for most cooking needs. Cooks can always add their own herbs and spices to taste.
Pack Size
Tomato paste is available in cans ranging from small 6 ounce sizes up to large tubes or cans over 30 ounces. Consider how much tomato paste you typically use. Infrequent users or cooks using tomato paste for small amounts of sauce can opt for 6 ounce cans to avoid waste. Those who use tomato paste often for big batches of chili or bolognese may prefer larger cans.
Price
Less expensive tomato paste may still deliver good flavor. Try a few affordable store brand options first before splurging on pricier specialty tomato pastes. Shop sales and deals when possible. Buying larger #10 cans can provide price savings per ounce compared to small cans.
Storage Method
Once opened, canned tomato paste must be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. If purchasing a large #10 can, consider whether you will use it up quickly enough before it spoils. For occasional users, smaller cans or tubes may make more sense for minimizing waste.
FAQs
How long does tomato paste last unopened?
Unopened canned tomato paste lasts 12-24 months from the manufacture date. Unopened tubes or dehydrated tomato paste also stay fresh for over a year stored in a cool, dry pantry.
How long does opened tomato paste last?
Once opened, canned tomato paste should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. Properly stored, it stays good for up to 2 weeks refrigerated or up to 6 months frozen.
How can you tell if tomato paste has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled tomato paste include mold, foul smell, separation of liquid, change in color, or sour taste. Discard tomato paste immediately if it shows any of these signs of spoilage.
Is tomato paste acidic?
Tomato paste typically has a pH between 4.3 and 4.7, giving it a high acidity level. This acidity acts as a preservative and prevents bacterial growth. It also gives tomato paste a tangy, tart flavor.
Can tomato paste be substituted for tomato sauce?
Tomato paste has a thicker consistency and concentrated flavor compared to sauce. To substitute for 1 cup tomato sauce, mix 1/4 cup tomato paste with 3/4 cup water. Adjust amounts as needed.
What's the difference between tomato paste, sauce, and diced tomatoes?
Tomato paste is made from cooked, strained tomatoes. Sauce is thinner with tomato pieces. Diced tomatoes contain chopped raw tomatoes in juice.
How long does tomato paste need to cook?
Tomato paste only needs brief cooking, just long enough to remove the raw taste. Cooking for 2-3 minutes once added to a dish is sufficient. Too much cooking can make the tomato paste taste bitter.
What are some good uses for tomato paste?
Tomato paste shines in chili, pasta sauce, stews, casseroles, rice dishes, braises, and soup. It adds rich color and savory tomato flavor. Add to pan sauces, gravies, and roasts for body and depth.
Conclusion
With so many options on the market, it helps to keep these key tips in mind when buying tomato paste.
Pay attention to the type, ingredients, quality, and packaging size to select the right tomato paste for your cooking needs.
Check for added seasonings, sugars, and preservatives and choose plain tomato paste for maximum versatility.
Resources:
- The Spruce Eats - How to Make a Tomato Paste Substitute - This article provides information on how to make a tomato paste substitute at home using tomato sauce or canned tomatoes.
- The Spruce Eats - How to Make Tomato Paste at Home - This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to make tomato paste at home using tomato sauce or fresh tomatoes.
- EatingWell - What Is Tomato Paste & How to Use It - This article explains what tomato paste is and how to use it in various recipes, including soups, sauces, and stews.
- The Spruce Eats - Easy Homemade Tomato Paste Recipe - This article provides three easy methods for making homemade tomato paste, including using a food mill or large sieve.
- Food & Wine - Every Little Can of Tomato Paste Is Magic - This article provides tips on how to use tomato paste in various recipes, including pasta sauces and stews.