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Best Substitutes for Tomato Paste — What to Use Instead

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Tomato Sauce (reduced): 3 tbsp sauce per 1 tbsp paste — Simmer sauce to reduce and concentrate.

Ketchup: 1:1 — Sweeter. Works in a pinch for sauces and soups.

Overview

Top substitute for tomato paste: Tomato Sauce (reduced) (3 tbsp sauce per 1 tbsp paste). Simmer sauce to reduce and concentrate. Plus 3 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Tomato Sauce (reduced): 3 tbsp sauce per 1 tbsp paste — Simmer sauce to reduce and concentrate.
  • Ketchup: 1:1 — Sweeter. Works in a pinch for sauces and soups.
  • Canned Tomatoes (drained, blended): 2-3 tbsp per 1 tbsp paste — Blend and reduce for concentrated flavor.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes (blended): 1:1 — Intense tomato flavor. Blend with water.

Why This Matters

  • Tomato Paste is a common ingredient that may need substituting
  • Dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free) may require alternatives
  • Sometimes you simply run out of an ingredient mid-recipe
  • Allergies or intolerances may necessitate a swap

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Tomato Sauce (reduced) at 3 tbsp sauce per 1 tbsp paste
  2. 2Consider the role of the ingredient (flavor, texture, binding, leavening)
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results
  5. 5Some substitutes work better in certain recipes than others

Tags

substitutesvegantomato-pasteingredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute for tomato paste is Tomato Sauce (reduced) at 3 tbsp sauce per 1 tbsp paste. Simmer sauce to reduce and concentrate.