When opening a new can of tomato paste, we usually use only 1-2 tablespoons of it. So, what should you do to prolong the life of the leftover tomato paste? How can you save the product from getting covered in mold and avoid throwing it away? Freezing tomato paste is an excellent way to store opened tomato paste can, and I will share with you the best ways to freeze tomato paste.
You cannot cook certain dishes without tasty and aromatic tomato paste. It gives dishes that unique summer aroma of fresh tomatoes. In stores, you can buy tomato paste in large glass jars, tin cans, TetraPak packages, etc. You’ve got plenty of options. The difficulty lies in the fact that it is more efficient to purchase tomato paste in large packaging. And when you open a can of tomato paste, you have only 5 to 7 days to use it while you store it in the fridge. You can leave an opened tube of tomato paste in the fridge for up to 45 days. So, if you like me and you do not want to eat the same or similar dishes during this time, you have a better option to store tomato paste at home.
How to freeze leftover tomato paste
Freezing is the best way to store opened tomato paste since it is the easiest way to prevent it from going bad. Besides, tomato paste freezes well. As for the step-by-step freezing process, it is pretty basic. First, figure out what is the most suitable amount of tomato paste for you to use in recipes. Then measure out the leftover tomato paste, place it on the plate lined with parchment paper and freeze it. That is about it. However, there are several peculiarities to the process that you need to keep in mind:
- Make sure to leave some space between tomato paste dollops to prevent portions from sticking together.
- Do not cover the plate with tomato paste portions and let them freeze for about 2 to 3 hours. The time depends on the size of the tomato paste dollops.
- When you see that tomato paste has frozen solid, transfer the dollops into a freezer-safe bag for further storage.
- You can freeze tomato paste in different containers: ice cube trays, silicone, ceramic, or metal molds. Any container that has divisions for portions will do.
- Do not forget to write the date when you freeze tomato paste, as it can be stored in the freezer no longer than for 3 months.
- Try not to defrost and then freeze tomato paste once again. The taste of tomato paste will degrade, for sure. You also risk the safety of the product and the overall dish.
- If you do not want to waste time dividing tomato paste into servings before freezing, you always have an option to freeze it whole. However, I find it very frustrating to use when necessary. I rarely can scoop out the right amount of frozen tomato paste.
I hope that you learned something new and useful today. For me, freezing pre-measure tomato paste is the easiest way to store leftover tomato paste. As you usually add tomato paste into the skillet with sautéing vegetables or to the pot with boiling liquid, you do not even need to thaw it before using it. Simply use it straight out of the freezer! If you have any questions or suggestions, please, leave them in the comment section below.
