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Flavorful Tomato Paste Umami Boost Easy Homemade Recipe for Richer Dishes

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A slow-simmered, richly flavored tomato paste boost that adds deep umami and complexity to sauces, stews, and more. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz (170 g) canned tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon (1 g) smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried oregano
  • Salt to taste (preferably sea salt or kosher salt)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and finely chop ½ a small onion.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Add garlic and onion to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until soft and fragrant but not browned.
  4. Stir in the entire 6 oz (170 g) can of tomato paste, spreading it evenly in the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to caramelize the paste slightly.
  5. Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey or maple syrup (if using), ½ teaspoon (1 g) smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
  6. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) water or vegetable broth to loosen the mixture slightly.
  7. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick but not dry. Add more water or broth if it starts sticking.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, honey, or vinegar as desired.
  9. Let cool completely before transferring to a glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

Use quality tomato paste brands like Hunt’s or Muir Glen for best flavor and texture. Avoid burning garlic by keeping heat moderate. Adjust sweetness and acidity slowly and taste often. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup and olive oil with coconut oil. Store in airtight container in fridge up to 3 weeks or freeze in portions. Stir in a teaspoon of water if paste thickens when cooled.

Nutrition

Keywords: tomato paste, umami boost, homemade tomato paste, easy tomato paste recipe, rich tomato sauce, pantry staple, slow simmered tomato paste

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/flavorful-tomato-paste-umami-boost-easy-homemade-recipe-for-richer-dishes/