Tomato paste - why logically?
What's up with tomato paste. I think it provides a unique taste you couldn't get with fresh tomato.. but why?? In specific, what's the difference between cooking fresh tomatoes or mixing tomato paste with water, both to the same consistency. There is a difference in flavor. but why?
Best Answer
Tomatoes contain high levels of glutamic acid and its sodium salt (mono sodium glutimate or MSG). In fact, the pulp contains over 4 times as much as the flesh of the tomato. In a tomato paste, the concentration of glutimates is even higher. The "unique" flavor is not only concentrated tomato, but the umami that comes with it. Tomato paste packs a very high umami punch that distinguishes it from fresh or canned tomatoes.
By the way, next time someone suggests that they want to avoid MSG, ask them if they also avoid tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, soy sauce, and many other ingredients where it is naturally occurring. Lot's of good info here.
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What is the point of adding tomato paste?
Tomato paste can be used to intensify flavor over time in slow-cooked recipes or can quickly add a burst of flavor in quick 30-minute recipes for weeknights.What is the reason for sauteing the tomato paste?
Why Do You Brown Tomato Paste? Before adding the paste to a sauce, brown it in some olive oil. Doing so causes a chemical reaction within the paste which changes its aroma and taste. The result is a cooked (versus) raw flavor, less bitter, sweeter, and a character of greater depth and structure.Why is tomato paste so cheap?
It's cheap because it is easy and cheap to make/produce. Fresh produce also turns bad and has to be thrown out quickly if it isnt sold, which is factored into the price. No such issue with canned stuff. You also can factor in the cost of packaging (small cans vs large ones) and the cost of transport.Does tomato paste have MSG?
1 Answer. Show activity on this post. Tomatoes contain high levels of glutamic acid and its sodium salt (mono sodium glutimate or MSG). In fact, the pulp contains over 4 times as much as the flesh of the tomato.Why Tomato Paste Is so Amazing for You
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