1

I have an American recipe that calls for 12oz Hunts Tomato paste and 1.5 cups of water. The nearest thing I have is Passata.

I don't know much about cooking, but they both seem to be made from tomatoes...is there any way I can use the passata I have in place of the tomato paste? I'm assuming I would reduce the water or completely skip the water - is there a general guideline here?

My instinct is to just throw it in a pot and, if it seems to watery, simmer until it thickens...but I figured I should ask people who know.

1 Answer 1

2

Passata is crushed tomato. Tomato paste is a concentrate of tomato produced by cooking for a long time, removing seeds and skin, and cooking further. They are different products that are going to produce different results, both flavor-wise and in terms of texture. If I were you, I would not add extra water at all, if you are going to use the Passata. I am sure it will be good...it will just be different from the intent of the recipe.

5
  • 2
    Also, in my experience, Hunts Tomato Paste has an aggressive level of salt, so it might be necessary to adjust salt levels in your recipe.
    – JasonTrue
    Apr 22, 2015 at 18:49
  • But just to be clear: As Passata is "weaker", substitute tomato paste and water by Passata or you would change the total amount of liquid in your recipe. Or use even more and simmer down a bit.
    – Stephie
    Apr 22, 2015 at 21:04
  • @Stephie I am not sure I would agree. Because Passata is a different product the end result is going to be different from the original recipe. Of course, the original recipe would be helpful, but I would NOT add any water. Why add water, just to evaporate it off?
    – moscafj
    Apr 22, 2015 at 22:56
  • 1
    Neither would I add water! Perhaps add more Passata than the original (paste + water) amount of "liquid" and simmer down to concentrate the flavour and thicken a bit. Sorry if I was unclear in my comment.
    – Stephie
    Apr 23, 2015 at 4:40
  • @Stephie ...ahh, got it.
    – moscafj
    Apr 23, 2015 at 10:46

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.