Here are the key Differences Between Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste that will help you distinguish these two without any confusion!
Tomato-based ingredients are essential in countless recipes, adding flavor, texture, and depth to dishes. In this article, we will discuss the Differences Between Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste to help you use them right!
What is Tomato Sauce?
Tomato sauce is made by cooking and straining tomatoes (the best tomatoes for it are San Marzanos, Roma tomatoes, Amish Pastes, Jersey Devils, Marianas, and Principe Borghese) and is the main ingredient in dishes like pasta sauces, pizza toppings, soups, and stews.
What is Tomato Paste?
This is made by reducing the moisture content to get a concentrated paste. It works really well for gravies and a variety of dishes and you will need to add only a bit of this to get that taste of tomatoes in the dishes!
Difference Between Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste
1. Consistency
One of the main differences between tomato sauce and paste is the consistency. While the sauce has a runny texture, the paste on the other hand is thick because of the concentration of the flesh.
2. Preparation
You can make sauce by simmering tomatoes with other ingredients like onions, garlic, and other spices. For tomato paste, you need just pure tomatoes. Reduce the water content and concentrate the flavor. Here’s a good video on how to make it.
3. Culinary Uses
You can use tomato sauce in pastas, soups, stews, pizzas, or probably anywhere you like. You can even have it raw!
Tomato paste is more suited for gravies, braised meats, marinades, and chilis.
4. Flavor
Tomato sauce has hints of everything that’s been added to it, so the taste has this sweetness with a subtle flavor of the ingredients.
Tomato paste is intense and tastes just like a tomato!
5. Storage
Tomato sauce has a short shelf life but you can extend it by keeping it in a refrigerator. Tomato paste is thicker and has better longevity. Keep it in an airtight jar and refrigerate to extend its life.
