Have you ever looked at a recipe and wondered what the difference was between tomato puree and tomato paste?
Or maybe you were at the store and saw both options on the shelf, but couldn’t decide which one to buy.
Well, wonder no more!
In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two ingredients.
By the end, you’ll know exactly when to use each one.
So let’s get started!
What is special about tomato purée?
Tomatoes are a kitchen staple and one of the most popular vegetables worldwide.
Though they can be eaten fresh, many tomatoes are processed into tomato puree.
Tomato puree is made from tomatoes that have been cooked and then strained, leaving only the pulp and skin behind.
This extra step results in a product that is both intensely flavorful and versatile.
It is commonly used as a base in Italian cuisine and has a slightly sweet taste.
Tomato puree can also be used in many recipes calling for tomato sauce, such as pizza and pasta sauces.
It is also an ingredient in some stews and soups.
Some brands of canned tomato products include salt, spices, and other flavoring ingredients; others are simply tomatoes that have been peeled and cooked down to a thick paste.
What is special about tomato paste?
Do you love the taste of tomatoes but hate how they can be such a pain to prepare?
If so, then tomato paste is the perfect solution!
This intensely flavorful and concentrated form of tomatoes is a kitchen staple in many cultures for good reason.
Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated tomato product that is often used as a base in recipes.
It has a deep red color and a slightly sweet flavor.
There are many uses for tomato paste including adding it to soups, stews, sauces, casseroles, and more.
It can also be used as a pizza sauce or as a dipping sauce.
Tomato paste is high in lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to health benefits like reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Tomato paste is available in cans and tubes, and can be stored in the pantry or fridge, depending on how it will be used.
For long-term storage, keep tomato paste in a jar with a tight-fitting lid in the pantry.
With its umami flavor and deep color, a little tomato paste goes a long way in giving depth flavor to dishes!
What are the differences between tomato puree and tomato paste?
Have you ever cooked with tomato puree or tomato paste and wondered what the difference is between the two?
If so, you’re not alone – many people are unsure of the distinction.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences between these two kitchen staples.
| Tomato puree | Tomato paste | |
| What is it | Made from crushed or whole tomatoes | Made from stewed tomatoes that have been strained to remove the seeds and skins |
| Texture and flavor | Smooth, thick liquid, but slightly thinner consistency than paste Less acidic than tomato paste | Much more concentrated than puree Has a deeper flavor as a result |
| Shelf life | Shorter shelf life | Longer shelf life |
| Usage | Can be used in both savory and sweet dishes Can be a good choice for sauces and soups | Is often used in savory dishes The best ingredients for thicker dishes like chili or pizza sauce |
What are the similarities between tomato purée and tomato paste?
Tomato puree and tomato paste are both common ingredients in many recipes.
Here’s a closer look at the similarities between tomato puree and tomato paste.
Tomato puree and tomato paste are both made from tomatoes that have been cooked down and strained, and both have a thick consistency.
Also, they also both have a slightly sweet taste.
In fact, many recipes call for both tomato puree and tomato paste because they provide similar flavors and textures.
Although tomato puree is just a little bit thinner than tomato paste, they have the same nutritional value.
Well, they both contain high levels of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium.
Which one is better?
| Product Comparison | Hunt's Tomato Puree, 10.75 oz, 12 Pack | Bionaturae Organic Tomato Paste - No Salt Tomato Paste, Tomato Paste... |
| Product Image |  |  |
| Rating | (based on 492 Reviews)  | (based on 3,428 Reviews) |
| Latest Price | Check Current Price | Check Current Price |
So which one should you use in your recipes?
Well, it really depends on what you are using them for.
If you are making a pasta sauce or soup, then I would recommend using tomato puree because it will give your dish a more smooth texture.
If you are making a pizza or chili, then I would recommend using tomato paste because it will give your dish a richer flavor!
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