Ingredient: Tomato Paste
Origin: Italy

Tomato paste is most basically tomatoes that have been cooked down until the moisture has been removed and a paste-like consistency remains. The paste is then strained of all the seeds and skin, and the remaining product is tomato paste.

Tomato paste is a wonderful ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. The paste adds a deep, rich tomato flavor when used as an ingredient. Adding tomato paste to a traditional tomato sauce or rich stew will add a depth of tomato flavor that cannot be achieved by fresh, whole tomatoes. Tomato paste can be bought at almost any grocery store, but it is also really easy to make. Click here for an easy and delicious tomato paste recipe by Saveur.