Takam Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato product that is made by cooking tomatoes for an extended period, then straining them to remove the seeds and skin. The resulting thick, rich paste is commonly used in a variety of culinary applications to add flavor, thickness, and color to dishes. Here are some key aspects of tomato paste:

1. Ingredients: Tomato paste is typically made from ripe tomatoes, though sometimes a small amount of salt may be added for flavor preservation. It does not contain any artificial colors or preservatives.

2. Production Process: The process of making tomato paste involves the following steps:

   - Tomatoes are washed and sorted.

   - They are then blanched, which involves briefly immersing them in boiling water, to remove the skin.

   - The tomatoes are then cooked and reduced to a thick consistency, usually in an open kettle or through industrial methods.

   - After cooking, the paste is strained to remove seeds and any remaining bits of skin.

3. Concentration: Tomato paste is highly concentrated, typically containing around 24% to 30% tomato solids. This concentration intensifies the tomato flavor and makes it a useful ingredient in recipes where a strong tomato taste is desired.

4. Uses: Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient used in various cuisines and dishes. It is commonly used to:

   - Add depth of flavor to sauces, soups, and stews.

   - Thicken and enrich gravies and pasta sauces.

   - Enhance the color and flavor of pizza sauce.

   - Serve as a base for homemade ketchup.

   - Mix with water or broth to make a quick tomato sauce or soup base.

5. Storage: Tomato paste is often sold in small cans or tubes. Once opened, any unused tomato paste should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for longer-term storage. When frozen, it's a good idea to portion it into small portions for easy use.

6. Nutrition: Tomato paste is a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, potassium, and various antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its potential health benefits. However, because it is concentrated, it is also relatively high in calories and should be used in moderation.

7. Flavor Profile: Tomato paste has a rich, intense tomato flavor with a slightly sweet and earthy undertone. It can be quite tangy, depending on the variety of tomatoes used.

Tomato paste is a convenient and versatile pantry staple, allowing you to add the essence of ripe tomatoes to your dishes year-round. It's commonly used in Italian, Mediterranean, and many other cuisines to enhance the flavor of various dishes.