Tag: tomato-sauce

5 Ways to Reduce Acidity in Tomato Sauce

5 Ways to Reduce Acidity in Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a staple in many kitchens, but its acidity can sometimes be a problem, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. If you’re looking for ways to reduce the acidity in tomato sauce without sacrificing flavor, you’re in luck. There are several simple techniques you can try to neutralize the acids and create a more balanced and enjoyable sauce.

One of the most effective ways to reduce acidity in tomato sauce is to add a pinch of baking soda. Baking soda is a mild alkali that reacts with the acids in the tomatoes, neutralizing them and creating a more alkaline environment. This can help to reduce the sourness of the sauce and make it more palatable. However, it’s important to use baking soda sparingly, as too much can give the sauce a bitter taste. Start with a small amount, such as 1/4 teaspoon per cup of sauce, and add more to taste.

Another way to reduce acidity in tomato sauce is to add a natural sweetener. Sugar, honey, or maple syrup can all help to balance out the sourness of the tomatoes. Start with a small amount, such as 1 tablespoon per cup of sauce, and add more to taste. If you’re using sugar, be sure to dissolve it completely in a little bit of hot water before adding it to the sauce. Honey and maple syrup can be added directly to the sauce.

Understanding the Causes of Tomato Acidity

The acidity of tomato sauce is primarily determined by the type of tomatoes used and the cooking process. Certain tomato varieties, such as Roma and San Marzano, have naturally lower acidity levels compared to others. The maturity of the tomatoes also plays a role, with ripe tomatoes tending to be less acidic than unripe ones.

The cooking process can further influence the acidity of tomato sauce. Acid can be released from tomatoes as they are cooked, particularly when exposed to high heat. Longer cooking times can result in higher acidity levels, as the prolonged exposure to heat allows for more acid to be released.

In addition to the natural acidity of tomatoes, other ingredients added to the sauce can also contribute to its acidity. For instance, the use of acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or white wine can increase the overall acidity of the sauce. The acidity level can also be affected by the presence of other acidic ingredients, such as onions or garlic, which can release acids during the cooking process.

Understanding the factors that contribute to tomato sauce acidity is crucial for effectively reducing it. By selecting less acidic tomato varieties, optimizing the cooking time and temperature, and using neutral or alkaline ingredients, you can create a balanced and flavorful tomato sauce with desired acidity levels.

Factor Effect on Acidity
Tomato variety Some varieties are naturally more acidic than others.
Tomato maturity Ripe tomatoes tend to be less acidic than unripe ones.
Cooking time and temperature Longer cooking times and higher temperatures can increase acidity.
Additional ingredients Acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice can increase acidity.

Balancing Acidity with Dairy Products

Incorporating dairy products is a classic technique to neutralize the acidity of tomato sauce. The calcium in dairy products acts as a buffer, reacting with the acids in the sauce to form salts and soften the overall flavor profile.

There are various dairy options to choose from, including:

Dairy Product Characteristics
Whole Milk Adds richness, creaminess, and a subtle sweetness.
Heavy Cream Provides a velvety texture and a touch of richness. Use in moderation to avoid overpowering the sauce.
Sour Cream Has a tart, tangy flavor that can balance acidity while adding a touch of thickness.
Cream Cheese Melts smoothly, creating a creamy sauce with a slight tang.
Yogurt A versatile option that adds a subtle tang and is suitable for both plain and flavored varieties.

When adding dairy products, it’s important to start with a small amount and gradually adjust according to taste. Overdoing it can make the sauce too heavy or alter the flavor balance.

Enhancing Sweetness with Fruits

Fruits, with their inherent sweetness and complexity of flavors, can be invaluable in counterbalancing the acidity of tomato sauce. Here are some popular fruits to consider:

Apricots

Dried apricots add a subtle sweetness and a hint of tanginess to tomato sauce. Their soft texture melts into the sauce, creating a velvety smoothness.

Bananas

While unconventional, bananas can provide a rich, caramelized sweetness to tomato sauce. Their natural starch also helps thicken the sauce.

Carrots

Grating carrots into tomato sauce adds subtle sweetness and a hint of earthiness. They also contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Raisins

Golden raisins and sultanas add a complex sweetness and chewiness to tomato sauce. They plump up as they cook, adding depth and texture.

Dates

Dried dates, with their rich and chewy texture, offer a caramel-like sweetness to tomato sauce. They also impart a subtle smokiness.

Fruit Sweetness Level Flavor Profile
Apricots Mild Tangy, fruity
Bananas Rich Caramelized, fruity
Carrots Subtle Earthy, sweet
Raisins Complex Sweet, chewy
Dates Rich Caramel-like, smoky

Adding Alkaline Ingredients

The most straightforward method for reducing acidity in tomato sauce is to add alkaline ingredients. These ingredients neutralize the acids in the sauce, reducing their sourness. Common alkaline ingredients include:

  • Baking soda: A pinch of baking soda can effectively neutralize acidity. Add it gradually, stirring well, until the desired balance is achieved.
  • Sugar: Sugar is a natural sweetener that can help counterbalance acidity. Add a small amount at a time until the sauce reaches the desired level of sweetness.
  • Cream: Dairy products like cream contain lactic acid, which can also help reduce acidity. Stir in a splash of cream or milk to mellow out the sauce.
  • Vegetable or meat broth: Broth adds flavor and depth to the sauce while also reducing acidity. Use unsalted broth to avoid adding additional saltiness.
  • Vegetables: Some vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, contain natural sugars that can help offset acidity. Sauté them with the sauce ingredients to enhance sweetness.

Additional Tips for Reducing Acidity:

In addition to adding alkaline ingredients, consider the following tips to further reduce acidity in tomato sauce:

  • Use sweet or low-acid tomatoes: Some tomato varieties, such as San Marzano or Roma tomatoes, have a naturally lower acidity. Use these types whenever possible.
  • Cook the sauce longer: Simmering the sauce for an extended period allows the acidity to mellow and evaporate.
  • Dilute the sauce: If the sauce is particularly acidic, consider diluting it with a bit of water or broth to lessen the intensity of the acidity.

Table of Alkaline Additives:

Ingredient Quantity
Baking soda 1/4 teaspoon per 1 cup of sauce
Sugar 1 teaspoon per 1 cup of sauce
Cream 1/4 cup per 1 cup of sauce
Vegetable or meat broth 1/2 cup per 1 cup of sauce

Employing Baking Soda or Vinegar

Acidity can detract from tomato sauce’s delectable flavor. Fortunately, there are two simple yet effective solutions to neutralize acidity: baking soda and vinegar.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can neutralize acids. Add a pinch of baking soda (about 1/4 teaspoon per cup of sauce) to the simmering sauce. Stir thoroughly and taste. If necessary, add more baking soda in small increments until the desired acidity level is achieved.

Vinegar

Vinegar, an acidic liquid, may seem counterintuitive for reducing acidity. However, adding a small amount of vinegar can actually balance out the flavors. Start with a teaspoon per cup of sauce and stir well. Taste and adjust the vinegar content as needed.

It’s important to note that both baking soda and vinegar should be used sparingly. Adding too much can alter the sauce’s taste and texture. Always taste the sauce before making any further adjustments.

Additional Tips for Employing Baking Soda or Vinegar

Tip Details
Dilution Mix baking soda or vinegar with a small amount of water before adding it to the sauce. This helps avoid clumping and uneven distribution.
Gradual Addition Add baking soda or vinegar in small increments and stir thoroughly after each addition. This allows you to control the acidity level more precisely.
Taste Regularly Taste the sauce throughout the process to gauge the acidity and make necessary adjustments.
Cooking Time After adding baking soda or vinegar, allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Cooking Longer to Reduce Acidity

Cooking tomato sauce longer allows the acidity to evaporate. However, this method requires precision and monitoring to prevent overcooking and loss of flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to reducing acidity by cooking longer:

  1. Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer over low heat.

  2. Cover the pot partially to allow some steam to escape.

  3. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent burning and promote even cooking.

  4. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, or even longer if desired.

  5. Taste the sauce periodically to monitor its acidity.

  6. Once the desired acidity is achieved, remove the sauce from heat.

Tips for Cooking Longer:

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly.
  • Add a dash of sugar or honey to the sauce to balance the acidity.
  • If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
  • If necessary, you can cook the sauce overnight in a slow cooker on the lowest setting.

How to Reduce Acidity in Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, some people find that tomato sauce can be too acidic for their taste. There are a few simple ways to reduce the acidity in tomato sauce.

One way to reduce acidity is to add a touch of sweetness. This can be done by adding sugar, honey, or agave nectar to the sauce. Another way to reduce acidity is to add a bit of cream or milk. This will help to neutralize the acidity and make the sauce creamier.

If you are looking for a more savory way to reduce acidity, you can add a bit of baking soda. Baking soda is a base that will help to neutralize the acids in the sauce. Be careful not to add too much baking soda, or the sauce will become bitter.

People Also Ask

Can I use vinegar to reduce acidity in tomato sauce?

No, adding vinegar to tomato sauce will actually increase the acidity.

What is the best way to reduce acidity in tomato sauce?

The best way to reduce acidity in tomato sauce is to add a touch of sweetness or cream. This will help to neutralize the acids and make the sauce more palatable.

5 Best Tomato Pastes for Authentic Italian Cooking

5 Best Tomato Pastes for Authentic Italian Cooking
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When it comes to cooking, tomato paste is an essential ingredient that can elevate the flavor of any dish. Whether you’re making a hearty soup, a savory stew, or a vibrant pasta sauce, the right tomato paste can make all the difference. However, with so many options available on the market, choosing the best tomato paste can be a daunting task. Fear not, because we’ve done the hard work for you. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of tomato paste, exploring its different varieties, uses, and how to find the perfect one for your culinary adventures.

Firstly, let’s talk about the different types of tomato paste available. The most common type is double-concentrated tomato paste, which has a thick, rich consistency and a deep, intense flavor. It’s perfect for adding a burst of tomato flavor to dishes without overwhelming them. Triple-concentrated tomato paste, on the other hand, is even more concentrated, offering an even bolder flavor. It’s ideal for dishes where you want the tomato flavor to take center stage, such as in a classic marinara sauce. Finally, there’s tomato purée, which is a less concentrated form of tomato paste. It has a thinner consistency and a milder flavor, making it a good choice for dishes where you want to add a hint of tomato without overpowering the other ingredients.

Once you’ve chosen the right type of tomato paste for your needs, it’s time to consider the quality. Look for tomato paste made from 100% tomatoes, without any added water or thickeners. The higher the quality of the tomatoes, the better the flavor of the paste will be. Additionally, check the expiration date to ensure that you’re getting the freshest product possible. With so many different options available, finding the best tomato paste for your cooking can be a challenge. However, by following these tips, you can be sure that you’re getting a high-quality product that will enhance the flavor of any dish.

Top 10 Qualities of Exceptional Tomato Paste

1. Exquisitely Concentrated: A Symphony of Rich Flavors

Exceptional tomato paste distinguishes itself with its remarkably concentrated essence, the culmination of ripe and pristine tomatoes expertly cooked down to amplify their inherent flavors. This concentrated elixir captures the sun-kissed essence of summer gardens, offering an intense and flavorful foundation for culinary creations. Its deep brick-red hue and velvety texture are a testament to its superior quality, promising a burst of umami and a depth of sweetness that elevates any dish it graces.

2. Pure and Unblemished: Nature’s Bounty in Its Truest Form

Purity is the cornerstone of exceptional tomato paste, ensuring an unadulterated expression of the tomato’s natural flavors. Premium brands showcase tomatoes as the sole ingredient, free from added sugars, preservatives, or thickeners that compromise their integrity. Every spoonful reveals the essence of the finest tomatoes, allowing their vibrant flavors to shine through without any distracting distractions.

3. Harmonious Balance: A Dance of Sweetness and Acidity

A well-crafted tomato paste strikes an exquisite balance between sweetness and acidity. Its sweetness originates from the natural sugars present in ripe tomatoes, providing a rich and mellow undertone. Simultaneously, a subtle acidity complements the sweetness, adding a refreshing vibrancy and depth of flavor that enhances the paste’s versatility. This harmonious union creates a compelling foundation for culinary adventures, allowing the tomato paste to seamlessly blend into sauces, stews, and marinades.

4. Vibrant Color: A Feast for the Eyes

Exceptional tomato paste captivates not only with its taste but also with its vibrant color. Its hue ranges from deep crimson to rich terracotta, reflecting the intensity of the tomato concentrate. This visual appeal adds an enticing element to any dish, enhancing its overall presentation and making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

5. Versatile Virtuosity: A Culinary Chameleon

The versatility of exceptional tomato paste is unparalleled. It elevates a wide range of dishes, from classic Italian sauces to hearty stews and flavorful marinades. Its concentrated nature allows it to infuse dishes with rich, robust flavors without overpowering their delicate nuances. Whether used as a base for culinary creations or a finishing touch to enhance their depth, tomato paste proves its indispensable worth in the culinary realm.

6. Culinary Trustworthiness: A Brand’s Promise of Excellence

Exceptional tomato paste is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering adherence to quality standards. Renowned brands take pride in their products, ensuring that every batch meets their rigorous standards. This commitment to excellence guarantees consistency and reliability, making these brands the trusted choice for discerning chefs and home cooks alike.

7. Sustainable Practices: A Commitment to the Planet

Exceptional tomato paste is not just about taste; it’s also about sustainability. Leading brands prioritize environmentally friendly practices, from sourcing tomatoes grown using sustainable farming techniques to minimizing waste in their production processes. By choosing tomato paste that aligns with your values, you not only indulge in culinary delights but also contribute to a greener future.

8. Easy to Use: A Culinary Time-Saver

Exceptional tomato paste is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Its concentrated nature means that a small amount goes a long way, making it easy to incorporate into your favorite recipes. Its shelf-stable nature also ensures that it will be there when you need it, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant flavors of tomato paste whenever inspiration strikes.

9. Health-Conscious Choice: A Nutritious Addition

Exceptional tomato paste is not just a culinary delight; it’s also a nutritious addition to your diet. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and these benefits are concentrated in tomato paste. By incorporating tomato paste into your meals, you can add a boost of nutrition without sacrificing taste.

10. Cost-Effective Value: A Culinary Investment that Pays Off

While exceptional tomato paste may come at a slight premium compared to regular tomato paste, its concentrated nature and superior quality make it a cost-effective investment. A small amount goes a long way, ensuring that you get the most out of every jar. Its versatility and ability to enhance a wide range of dishes further add to its value, making it a worthwhile purchase for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Scrutinizing the Ingredients: The Key to Premium Tomato Paste

When selecting the perfect tomato paste, it’s crucial to scrutinize the ingredients list. Premium tomato paste should consist solely of tomatoes, devoid of any additives or preservatives. This ensures that the paste retains the natural flavor and nutritional benefits of fresh tomatoes.

To ensure that you’re getting the best possible tomato paste, consider the following factors:

Organic Certification:

Opting for organic tomato paste is a wise choice as it guarantees that the tomatoes used have been grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This results in a cleaner and healthier product, free from undesirable chemicals.

Country of Origin:

Italy is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest tomatoes, thanks to its ideal climate and soil conditions. Look for tomato paste that hails from Italy to enjoy authentic, rich flavor.

Concentration:

The concentration of tomato paste is an essential indicator of its quality. Higher concentrations, typically around 28-30%, signify a more intense and flavorful paste. This type of paste is perfect for adding depth and richness to dishes.

Table Summarizing Key Ingredients

Ingredient Role
Tomatoes Provides natural flavor and nutrients
Salt (optional) Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative
Citric acid (optional) Preserves color and brightness

Unlocking the Flavor Profile: Exploring the Nuances of Tomato Paste

The Concentrated Essence of Tomato Delights

Tomato paste is the culinary cornerstone of many delectable dishes, offering an intense and versatile flavor that elevates sauces, soups, and stews. Crafted from ripe, sun-kissed tomatoes, this concentrated essence captures the alluring essence of the fruit. Its vibrant color and rich aroma hint at the culinary adventures that await.

Delving into the Variations

Tomato paste, far from being a monolithic ingredient, encompasses a range of options to suit diverse culinary needs. From single-strength to triple-concentrated and beyond, each grade boasts its own distinct characteristics. Single-strength paste offers a balance of flavor and acidity, while double-concentrated paste intensifies the umami notes and enhances the texture of sauces. Triple-concentrated paste, with its exceptional richness and depth, transforms humble dishes into culinary masterpieces.

Navigating the Maze of Brands

In the vast culinary landscape, discerning the finest tomato paste brands requires a discerning palate and a knack for culinary exploration. From traditional Italian producers to innovative American companies, the market abounds with options. Here’s a helpful table to guide your search:

Brand Country of Origin Strength
Mutti Italy Double-concentrated
Cento Italy Triple-concentrated
Hunts USA Single-strength
Rao’s Homemade USA Double-concentrated
Pastene USA Triple-concentrated

Versatile Culinary Applications: The Many Roles of Tomato Paste

1. Enriching Sauces and Stews

Tomato paste adds depth and richness to sauces and stews, offering a vibrant red hue and a tangy, umami flavor. Its concentrated nature ensures that even small amounts infuse dishes with a substantial tomatoey punch.

2. Flavoring Soups and Chilis

In soups and chilis, tomato paste serves as a base flavoring, imparting a hearty, complex taste. Its ability to meld with other ingredients creates a harmonious symphony of flavors.

3. Enhancing Marinades and Rubs

Adding tomato paste to marinades and rubs enhances the flavor penetration into meats, poultry, and vegetables. Its acidic nature helps tenderize proteins, while its sweetness complements savory ingredients.

4. Creating Vibrant Pasta Sauces: A Comprehensive Guide

A. Marinara: The Classic Tomato Sauce

Marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, made with a combination of tomato paste, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Its versatility makes it suitable for pasta, pizza, and sandwiches.

Ingredients Quantity
Tomato paste 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Basil 1/4 cup, chopped
Oregano 1/4 teaspoon

B. Bolognese: A Rich and Meaty Sauce

Bolognese sauce is a hearty, slow-cooked sauce from Bologna, Italy. It combines ground beef, pork, vegetables, and tomato paste, resulting in a complex and flavorful masterpiece.

Ingredients Quantity
Tomato paste 1/2 cup
Ground beef 1 pound
Ground pork 1/2 pound
Onion 1, finely chopped
Carrot 1, finely chopped
Celery 1, finely chopped

The Historical Evolution of Tomato Paste: A Culinary Journey

Origins in Ancient Civilizations

The earliest evidence of tomato use dates back to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, where the Aztecs and Mayans cultivated the fruit as early as 700 AD.

Spread to Europe and the World

Spanish conquistadors introduced tomatoes to Europe in the 16th century, initially as ornamental plants. Over time, the fruit gained popularity as a culinary ingredient, particularly in Italian cuisine.

Early Tomato Paste Techniques

Traditionally, tomato paste was made by simmering whole tomatoes and straining them through a sieve. This technique yielded a concentrated and flavorful product, but it was labor-intensive and time-consuming.

Industrial Revolution and Mass Production

During the Industrial Revolution, advances in technology led to the development of automated tomato paste production methods. The invention of the industrial tomato press and the vacuum evaporator enabled large-scale production, making tomato paste more accessible and affordable.

standardization and Quality Control

In the 20th century, efforts were made to standardize the quality of tomato paste. The Codex Alimentarius, an international food standards organization, established guidelines for the composition and properties of tomato paste. This ensured consistent quality and safety.

Modern Production Methods

Today, tomato paste is produced using modern machinery and processes that prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Vacuum concentration and spray drying techniques allow for the removal of excess moisture, resulting in a highly concentrated product with a shelf life of several years.

Nutritional Value and Culinary Applications

Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient rich in lycopene, an antioxidant associated with various health benefits. It adds umami flavor and vibrant color to sauces, soups, stews, and other culinary preparations. The concentrated nature of tomato paste makes it a valuable addition to recipes where intense tomato flavor is desired.

Tomato Paste’s Role in Global Cuisine: A Culinary Expedition

Tomato paste is a culinary staple found in cuisines worldwide, adding depth of flavor, vibrant color, and nutritional value to countless dishes. Its versatility makes it an essential ingredient in soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.

A Global Culinary Anchor

From the vibrant markets of Mexico to the aromatic kitchens of Italy, tomato paste has become an indispensable ingredient in diverse culinary traditions. It enhances the flavors of curries in India, adds a rich base to traditional Chinese dishes, and forms the foundation of hearty soups and sauces in European cooking.

A Flavorful Adventure

Tomato paste’s concentrated tomato flavor adds a savory and slightly sweet depth to dishes. Its rich umami notes complement salty, spicy, and sour ingredients, creating a harmonious balance. The subtle acidity of tomato paste also helps to brighten flavors and balance out richness.

A Culinary Transformer

Beyond its flavor-enhancing properties, tomato paste also acts as a natural thickener, adding body and texture to sauces and soups. Its vibrant red hue also adds a visually appealing element to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient for both home cooking and professional kitchens.

A Versatile Ingredient

Tomato paste’s versatility extends to its various forms. Canned tomato paste offers convenience and shelf stability, while fresh tomato paste provides a fresher flavor. Tube-packed tomato paste allows for easy portioning and storage, making it ideal for quick and easy cooking.

A Healthful Addition

Besides its culinary merits, tomato paste is also a nutritious addition to any diet. It is a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant with potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers. Tomato paste also contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber.

8. Culinary Explorations with Tomato Paste

The possibilities for culinary exploration with tomato paste are endless. Here are a few exciting ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure:

  • Create a rich and flavorful Arrabiata sauce for pasta.
  • Enhance the depth of a hearty beef stew or chili.
  • Add a savory umami boost to stir-fries and rice dishes.
  • Create a creamy tomato soup with a luscious texture.
  • Experiment with tomato paste as a marinade for meats and vegetables.
  • Add a vibrant color and flavor to homemade pizzas.
  • Incorporate it into your favorite dips and spreads.
  • Use it as a base for flavorful vegetable sauces.

    • The Best Tomato Paste

    Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to sauces and pastas. Not all tomato pastes are created equal, however. Some brands are thin and watery, while others are thick and rich. The best tomato paste is thick, rich, and has a deep red color. It should also be made with 100% tomatoes, without any added water or sugar.

    There are many different brands of tomato paste available on the market. Some of the most popular brands include:

    • Cento
    • Muir Glen
    • Pomi
    • San Marzano
    • Tuttorosso

    When choosing a tomato paste, it is important to read the label carefully. Make sure that the tomato paste is made with 100% tomatoes and that it does not contain any added water or sugar. You should also look for a tomato paste that is thick and rich. The thicker the tomato paste, the more flavor it will add to your dishes.

    People Also Ask

    What is the difference between tomato paste and tomato sauce?

    Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomato sauce. It is made by simmering tomatoes until they are thick and reduced. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, is made by simmering tomatoes with other ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and herbs. Tomato paste has a more intense flavor than tomato sauce and is often used in dishes where a strong tomato flavor is desired.

    How do I use tomato paste?

    Tomato paste can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be added to soups, stews, sauces, and pastas. Tomato paste can also be used as a marinade for meat or fish. When using tomato paste, it is important to dilute it with water or another liquid. This will help to prevent the tomato paste from burning.

    What is the best tomato paste for pizza?

    The best tomato paste for pizza is a tomato paste that is thick, rich, and has a deep red color. It should also be made with 100% tomatoes, without any added water or sugar. Some of the best brands of tomato paste for pizza include Cento, Muir Glen, Pomi, San Marzano, and Tuttorosso.