Tomato Paste

Homemade Tomato Paste: A Simple Thermomix Recipe

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook can be a real challenge. I often crave the rich, vibrant flavors of homemade tomato paste, but the thought of hours spent simmering and stirring seemed overwhelming. That’s where my trusty Thermomix comes in. This simple recipe transforms a basket of ripe tomatoes into a thick, flavorful paste in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. The convenience is unparalleled, leaving me more time to focus on my family and work.

The magic of the Thermomix: The Thermomix isn't just a blender; it's a culinary powerhouse. Its precision temperature control and chopping functions make achieving a perfect tomato paste effortless. The process is incredibly easy, requiring minimal supervision and significantly less physical effort compared to traditional methods. And the result? A tomato paste bursting with fresh tomato flavor, far superior to anything I've found in a jar. It's a real testament to the power of fresh ingredients and smart technology.

Beyond the paste: This recipe is more than just a way to make tomato paste; it's a springboard for culinary creativity. Homemade tomato paste is infinitely more versatile than store-bought. Its intense flavor elevates any dish from simple pasta sauces to hearty stews. I often use it as a base for soups, adding layers of depth and complexity. The vibrant red color adds a visual appeal that store-bought paste simply can't match.

A taste of summer: The process of making this tomato paste is also a delightful sensory experience. The aroma of simmering tomatoes fills the kitchen, transporting me back to sun-drenched summer days spent in my grandmother's garden. It’s a comforting, nostalgic process, connecting me to simpler times and the pleasure of creating something delicious from scratch.

Time-saving and satisfying: This Thermomix recipe is a game-changer for busy individuals. It's not just about making tomato paste faster; it's about the satisfaction of creating something flavorful and high-quality, knowing exactly what's in it. Forget the preservatives and artificial ingredients of store-bought varieties; this recipe ensures you control every aspect of your tomato paste. It's a simple pleasure that adds a touch of homemade goodness to everyday meals.

From pantry staple to culinary hero: This simple homemade tomato paste quickly transitioned from a pantry staple to a culinary hero in my kitchen. Its rich flavor and vibrant color transform simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and the magic of the Thermomix.

Ingredients and Variations: The basic ingredients are simple: ripe tomatoes, olive oil, sugar, salt, and bay leaves. But feel free to experiment! I've added red bell peppers for an extra touch of sweetness and a deeper red hue. The quantity of tomatoes can be adjusted to fit your Thermomix bowl. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices – a pinch of oregano or basil would add another layer of flavor. The key is to use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best taste.

Beyond the recipe: This recipe is a testament to the simplicity and efficiency of using a Thermomix. I often make a large batch and freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning and long-term storage. Having homemade tomato paste on hand ensures I always have a quick and flavorful ingredient for various dishes. It's a small detail that makes a significant difference in my everyday cooking, and I invite you to try it.

Step-by-step

• Put the tomatoes into the Thermomix bowl; whatever you can fit. I managed to squish the tomatoes down with the lid.
• Chop for 10-30 seconds on speed 6.
• Add salt, sugar, oil and bay leaves.
• Cook for 40 minutes at Varoma temperature on speed 1.
• Turn speed slowly up to 6, then build up to 9. Pulverise for a minute.
• Scrape the mixture from the sides down into the bowl, then cook for another 40 minutes as above.
• Keep repeating steps 4 and 5 until the tomato paste is the consistency and colour you prefer. Because the tomato paste in the photos above was a first attempt, I erred on the side of caution, not wanting to burn it, but I think next time I'll try to reduce the mixture further, making it more of a deep red. You can also add red capsicums to the mixture too.