Tomato Puree Deluxe
A rich, flavorful tomato puree with subtle hints of onion and paprika, perfect for enhancing sauces, soups, or as a base for various dishes. Suitable for all tomato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a large kettle.
- Cook over medium heat until tomatoes are tender.
- Remove bay leaf.
- Force the mixture through a strainer or process in a blender.
- Return the tomato mixture to heat and cook until reduced to half the original volume.
- Pour into hot sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can use a food mill instead of a strainer. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute. Adjust the salt and paprika to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed. To enhance flavors, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Serving Suggestions
This tomato puree is versatile and can be used as a base for sauces, soups, or stews. Pair it with pasta for a classic Italian dish or use it as a pizza sauce. It also complements dishes like Aunt Letha'S Harvest Bread for a hearty meal. For a refreshing drink, consider serving with a glass of Blackberry Lemonade.
Storage & Reheating
Store the tomato puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the puree in portions. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Always check for seasoning before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Puree Deluxe contains roughly 170 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes are a great alternative. They can save time and still yield a delicious puree. Use whole peeled or diced tomatoes, and adjust the cooking time accordingly since they are already cooked.
How can I thicken the puree if it's too watery?
If your puree is too watery, continue to cook it over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reduces to your desired thickness. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tomato paste to help thicken it.
What can I serve with tomato puree?
Tomato puree pairs well with many dishes. Use it as a base for pasta sauces, stews, or soups. It also works wonderfully as a dipping sauce for bread or as a topping on pizzas, making it a versatile addition to your meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).