If you're looking for a fast and convenient way to add depth of flavor to your cooking, you might want to consider using tomato puree. 1 Lb of tomato puree (with salt added, canned) contains around 172 calories. Tomato puree is made by cooking fresh tomatoes and then straining out the seeds and skin, resulting in a smooth and concentrated sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Tomato puree is not just tasty but also provides a good amount of nutrients. In a 1 Lb can, you can find up to 55% of recommended daily intake of vitamin C and 20% of vitamin A. It is also a good source of potassium, magnesium and vitamins E and K1.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of using tomato puree in your cooking, as well as some tips for buying and storing it correctly.

What is tomato puree?

Tomato puree is a thick, rich tomato sauce that is made by cooking tomatoes until they have broken down and then straining out the seeds and skin. This results in a smooth and concentrated sauce that can be used in many different dishes. Unlike tomato sauce, which is typically seasoned with herbs and spices and cooked down until thick, tomato puree is usually unseasoned and has a thinner consistency that is perfect for blending in with other ingredients. You can buy tomato puree in cans or jars at most grocery stores, or you can make your own by cooking fresh tomatoes and then straining them through a fine-mesh sieve.

Calorie content of tomato puree

1 Lb of tomato puree (with salt added, canned) contains around 172 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie ingredient, which is great if you're watching your weight or trying to eat a healthier diet. Just be aware that some brands of tomato puree may contain additional ingredients like sugar, salt or oil, which can increase the calorie count. Always check the label to make sure you know exactly what you're getting.

Nutritional value of tomato puree

Tomato puree is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. In a 1 Lb can of tomato puree, you can find up to 55% of recommended daily intake of vitamin C and 20% of vitamin A. It is also a good source of potassium, magnesium and vitamins E and K1. Not only that, but tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of chronic disease.

Health benefits of tomato puree

Tomato puree can offer a variety of health benefits. For example, the lycopene in the tomato sauce can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer, heart disease, and macular degeneration. Additionally, the Vitamin A in tomato puree can help to improve eyesight. Some evidence suggests that consuming tomato products can also help reduce inflammation in the body, lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and even help with weight loss. While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, incorporating tomato puree into your diet is still an easy way to add extra nutrition to your meals.

How to use tomato puree in cooking

Tomato puree is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to pasta sauces and meat dishes. Here are some examples of how to use tomato puree in your cooking:

• Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite soup or stew to add extra depth of flavor and richness.
• Use it as a base for homemade pasta sauce by cooking it down with garlic, onion, and herbs until thick and fragrant.
• Add a dollop to ground meat dishes like tacos or chili to add moisture and flavor.
• Blend it into a smoothie or juice for a nutrient-packed beverage.

Tomato puree vs tomato sauce

While tomato puree and tomato sauce may look and taste similar, they are actually two different things. Here are the main differences between the two:

• Tomato puree is made by cooking fresh tomatoes and then straining out the seeds and skin, resulting in a smooth and concentrated sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes.
• Tomato sauce, on the other hand, is a more heavily seasoned and thicker sauce that is often used as a topping for pizza or as a base for pasta sauces.
• In general, tomato puree is a more versatile ingredient that can be used in a wider range of recipes.

Tips for buying and storing tomato puree

When buying tomato puree, it's important to read the label carefully to make sure you're getting a high-quality product. Look for purees that are made with just tomatoes and possibly salt for the purest product. Storing tomato puree is easy. Once opened, transfer the leftover puree to a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Recipes using tomato puree

If you're looking for some inspiration on how to use tomato puree in your cooking, here are a few recipes to try out:

• Spaghetti with tomato puree and garlic sauce
• Beef and tomato puree curry
• Tomato puree and basil soup
• Chickpea and tomato puree stew

Allergies and side effects of tomato puree

While tomato puree is generally safe to eat, some people may have an allergy or sensitivity to tomatoes. Symptoms of a tomato allergy can include hives, itching, stomach pain, and vomiting. Additionally, some people may experience heartburn, acid reflux, or stomach upset after eating tomatoes or tomato products. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should avoid tomato puree and speak to your doctor to rule out any underlying health issues.

FAQs about tomato puree

Here are some common questions and answers about tomato puree:

• Q: Is tomato puree the same as tomato paste? A: No, tomato paste is a thicker and more concentrated tomato product that is usually used to add intense tomato flavor to dishes.
• Q: Can I use tomato puree as a pizza sauce? A: While you can use tomato puree as a pizza sauce, it may be thinner and more runny than traditional pizza sauce.
• Q: Can I make my own tomato puree? A: Yes, you can make your own tomato puree by cooking fresh tomatoes and then running them through a fine-mesh sieve or food mill.