As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of simmering Roma tomatoes filled the air, transporting me straight to a sun-drenched Italian market. The secret to that vibrant flavor? Learning how to make tomato paste right at home! This delightful recipe only calls for three simple ingredients, making it incredibly accessible while allowing you to tailor it to your taste. Not only does this homemade version elevate your favorite sauces and soups, but it also offers fantastic storage options—whether you prefer canning for long-term use or freezing for quick access during busy weeknights. Ready to transform your meals and impress your family? Let’s dive into the world of fresh, rich, homemade tomato paste!

Why Make Homemade Tomato Paste?

Incredible flavor: There’s something magical about transforming fresh Roma tomatoes into a luscious, concentrated paste that elevates your dishes beyond store-bought versions.

Versatile storage: With options for both canning and freezing, you can enjoy this flavorful staple year-round, always ready to enhance your pasta sauces or hearty soups like Corn Zucchini Chowder.

Easy process: This recipe requires just three ingredients—simple enough for a beginner yet rewarding for seasoned chefs.

Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch to save time during busy weeks! Simply grab a portion from the freezer and add instant flavor to your meals.

Add your twist: Personalize with herbs or spices to make the recipe your own, elevating classic Italian dishes to new heights!

Homemade Tomato Paste Ingredients

For the Paste
• Roma Tomatoes – The essential base for rich flavor; feel free to substitute with other paste tomato varieties for the best results.
• Olive Oil – Adds a luxurious richness; avocado oil works as a great substitute for a different taste.
• Bay Leaf – Enhances the flavor depth; use one for every two pounds of tomatoes for optimal results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for How to Make Tomato Paste

Step 1: Prep Tomatoes
Start by washing and roughly chopping 8 pounds of Roma tomatoes, removing any blemishes. This fresh base is crucial for creating your homemade tomato paste. Use a cutting board and a sharp knife for easy chopping, and have a large bowl ready to contain the chopped tomatoes as you work.

Step 2: Cook Tomatoes
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the oil. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a rich aroma throughout your kitchen.

Step 3: Mill the Tomatoes
Once the tomatoes have softened, using a food mill, pass the mixture through to remove the skins and seeds. This step will leave you with a smooth puree essential for your tomato paste. Discard any solids that remain, and prepare to return the puree to the pot for the next stage.

Step 4: Simmer
Return the smooth tomato puree to the pot and add 1 bay leaf for every 2 pounds of tomatoes. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 1.5-2 hours. Stir frequently, watching for the mixture to thicken to a paste-like consistency, and enjoy the fragrant, savory scent filling your home as it cooks.

Step 5: Store
Once the tomato paste has thickened to your desired consistency, transfer it into sterilized jars if canning or use silicone trays for freezing. For canning, ensure you leave a ¼ inch headspace in the jars. Process them in a hot water bath for 40 minutes to preserve your homemade tomato paste for future use.

Expert Tips for Homemade Tomato Paste

Fresh Ingredients: Use fully ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor. Overripe or damaged tomatoes can lead to a less vibrant paste.
Heat Control: Maintain medium heat when cooking the tomatoes to avoid burning. Lower the heat if the mixture starts to stick to the pot.
Mill Carefully: When milling the tomatoes, ensure your food mill is set up correctly. Any remaining solids can result in a gritty texture rather than a smooth paste.
Thickening Time: Be patient during the simmering process. The longer you simmer, the richer and thicker your tomato paste will become, enhancing its flavor immensely.
Storage Options: Consider your plans—canning is great for long-term storage, while freezing is perfect for quick access. Make sure to label containers clearly with the date.
Customize Your Paste: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices! Adding dried oregano or basil can deepen the flavor of your homemade tomato paste, making it truly yours.

What to Serve with Easy 3-Ingredient Homemade Tomato Paste

Transform your meals with delightful pairings that emphasize the rich flavors of your homemade creation.

Creamy Risotto: The smooth texture of risotto balances the thick tomato paste, allowing its flavors to shine beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread serves as the perfect vehicle for scooping up sauces enriched by your tomato paste.
Hearty Meatballs: Juicy meatballs in a tomato-based sauce create a comforting and filling dish that highlights your homemade paste.
Pasta Primavera: Fresh, sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta and your tomato paste create a vibrant, colorful meal that pleases the eye and palate.
Bruschetta Topping: Spread your tomato paste on crostini, topped with fresh basil and mozzarella for a sensational appetizer bursting with flavor.
Savory Ratatouille: Blend your tomato paste into ratatouille for added depth in this classic dish featuring summer’s best veggies.

Pairing your tomato paste with these delicious items will elevate your meals, making family mealtime something truly special. Feel free to experiment and discover new favorites!

Variations & Substitutions for Homemade Tomato Paste

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Dried Herbs: Add dried oregano or basil for a burst of Italian flair during the simmering process.
Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes for an extra dash of heat, perfect for spicy pasta sauces!
Wine Boost: Deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine after cooking the tomatoes to add depth and complexity to the flavor.
Roasted Flavor: Roast the tomatoes beforehand for a sweet, caramelized taste that brightens your paste beautifully.
Smoky Twist: Incorporate a few drops of liquid smoke to create a delightful smoky flavor, great for grilled dishes.
Vegetable Blend: Blend in finely chopped carrots or bell peppers while cooking for added sweetness and nutrients.
Lower Fat: Swap olive oil with vegetable or light olive oil to reduce the fat content while still maintaining flavor.
Herb Infusion: Steep fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the oil before adding tomatoes for an aromatic infusion that will elevate any dish.

Explore these variations alongside your homemade paste, and don’t miss out on trying it in dishes like Japanese Katsu Bowls, which can benefit beautifully from your flavorful creation!

Make Ahead Options

These easy 3-ingredient homemade tomato paste options are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tomato mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply wash, chop, and cook the Roma tomatoes as instructed, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container overnight. When you’re ready to make your paste, just mill the tomatoes and simmer with the bay leaf as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze the finished tomato paste in portion sizes for up to 1 year, neatly using silicone trays. This way, you’ll always have rich, flavorful homemade tomato paste ready to elevate your dishes, saving you precious time when meal planning!

Storage Tips for Homemade Tomato Paste

Fridge: Store leftover homemade tomato paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to cover the surface with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze tomato paste in portion sizes using silicone trays. Once frozen, pop them out and store in a sealed bag for up to 1 year, making it easy to add flavor to future dishes.
Canning: If canning, ensure that jars are sterilized and leave a ¼ inch headspace. Process in a hot water bath for 40 minutes for safe preservation, allowing you to enjoy summer’s bounty year-round.
Reheating: When ready to use, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or directly in a saucepan over low heat. Stir often and add a touch of water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Enjoy the rich flavor of your homemade tomato paste!

Homemade Tomato Paste Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best tomatoes for making tomato paste?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your homemade tomato paste, opt for fully ripe Roma tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm, with vibrant red color and no dark spots. Overripe or damaged tomatoes can lead to a less vibrant and less flavorful paste.

What is the best way to store homemade tomato paste?
For storage, you can keep leftover tomato paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To prolong freshness, cover the surface with a layer of olive oil, as this helps prevent oxidation that could affect flavor.

How do I freeze homemade tomato paste properly?
Very! To freeze your tomato paste, first, pour it into silicone trays in the portion sizes you prefer. Once frozen, pop out the portions and transfer them into a resealable plastic bag. Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 1 year, ensuring a convenient way to add rich flavor to your meals later on!

What common issues should I watch for when making tomato paste?
It’s essential to keep an eye on the heat while simmering the tomato mixture. If you notice it starting to stick to the pot, lower the heat to prevent burning. Additionally, make sure to mill the tomatoes thoroughly to avoid any solids, which could result in a gritty texture instead of smooth paste.

Are there any dietary considerations for homemade tomato paste?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with tomato allergies, it’s vital to avoid this recipe entirely. Additionally, for those following a low-fat diet, you might consider reducing the amount of olive oil used or substituting it with a lighter oil, like avocado oil. Always check with family members regarding any ingredient concerns you may have.

Can I can homemade tomato paste safely at home?
Yes! For safe canning, ensure your jars are sterilized and filled with tomato paste, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Process the jars in a hot water bath for 40 minutes to preserve your homemade tomato paste. Be sure to follow proper canning guidelines to ensure safety and quality.