Tomato paste, the savior of forgotten flavors

Tomato Paste, the Savior of Forgotten Flavors

Tomato paste, a thick and rich extract of ripe tomatoes, is one of the main pillars of Iranian cuisine and many other food cultures. This valuable food ingredient not only gives unique color and flavor to foods, but also plays an important role in human health with its countless properties.

History and Importance of Tomato Paste

The history of using tomato paste goes back centuries. In the past, people used to turn tomatoes into paste to preserve them for a long time. Today, tomato paste has become one of the most widely used seasonings in cooking due to its unique flavor and color, ease of use, and high shelf life.

 Properties and Benefits of Tomato Paste

A rich source of antioxidants: Tomato paste contains powerful antioxidants such as lycopene, beta-carotene and vitamin C, which protect the body from free radicals.

Cancer prevention: Lycopene in tomato paste reduces the risk of some cancers such as prostate, lung and stomach cancer.

Maintaining heart health: Antioxidants in tomato paste reduce bad cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Immune system strengthening: Vitamin C in tomato paste strengthens the immune system and increases the body’s resistance to diseases.

Maintaining skin health: Antioxidants in tomato paste protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet rays and slow down the skin aging process.

Source of vitamins and minerals: Tomato paste contains vitamins A, K, B and minerals such as potassium, magnesium and iron, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body.

Uses of tomato paste in cooking

Tomato paste is used in the preparation of a variety of Iranian and international dishes. Some of its common uses include:

Types of stews: Tomato paste gives a unique color and flavor to stews.

Types of sauces: Tomato paste is the main base of many sauces such as pasta sauce and pizza sauce.

Types of soups: Tomato paste gives a unique flavor and color to soups.

Types of traditional dishes: Tomato paste is one of the main ingredients in the preparation of many traditional Iranian dishes such as gheemeh, ghormeh sabzi and abgousht.

Tips for making and storing tomato paste

To make tomato paste, use ripe, high-quality tomatoes.

Store tomato paste in a cool, dry place.

To prevent tomato paste from going moldy, you can pour some oil on its surface.

Conclusion

Tomato paste is not only a delicious and widely used seasoning in cooking, but also plays an important role in maintaining human health with its numerous properties. Using tomato paste in your diet can help improve heart health, prevent cancer, strengthen the immune system, and maintain healthy skin.