How to Freeze Tomato Paste

How to freeze your tomato paste when you have it in excess and you want to save for later or want to avoid wasting leftovers. Freezing tomato paste is a quick and easy solution for you. In this post, we will show you how to freeze your tomato paste correctly and how to thaw it when you need to use it.

Tomato paste can be used in making a variety of delicious recipes, but it is not always easy to use an entire can or jar in one go and so it will need preserving so it doesn't go bad.

Freezing tomato paste is a great way to preserve its freshness and extend its shelf life. 

With the right technique, you can freeze tomato paste without affecting its flavor or texture, ensuring that it remains fresh and delicious.

To freeze tomato paste, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, you need to portion the tomato paste using a tablespoon or ice cube tray.

The Dollop “tablespoon” method

On a plate or baking sheet that has been wrapped in plastic wrap, drop dollops of your leftover tomato paste equal to 1 tablespoon over the surface. 

Wrap the tomato paste in a plastic wrap or clingfilm and placed it inside a freezer bag to prevent it from clinging to the plate as it freezes. Make sure they are not touching.

Place the wrapped dollops on a baking sheet on a flat surface, uncovered, in the freezer for two to three hours, or until they are completely solid.

Transfer the portioned tomato paste to the freezer or an airtight container. Store tomato paste in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the containers or pressing the bags to release the trapped air.

The Ice cube tray method

Freeze tomato paste in ice cube trays. Ensure that each cube is filled leaving some head-space to allow for expansion during freezing

Make sure the tray is placed on a flat surface to avoid leaks or spills. It is advisable to keep the tomato paste in the coldest part of your freezer to maintain its quality. 

How to Thaw the Tomato Paste

A quick method could help you save time and money in the kitchen by thawing and using frozen tomato paste. When you need to use frozen tomato paste, you have two options to choose from;

A) Refrigerator thawing: this is transferring the desired amount of frozen tomato paste from the freezer to the refrigerator and letting it thaw slowly overnight or for around 24 hours. Once thawed, for optimal results, use it within 3 days.

B) Direct use: if you need a small amount of tomato paste and don't have time to thaw it, you can simply scrape the desired frozen portion directly from the container or bag. Return the remaining paste to the freezer immediately.

How to Store Frozen Tomato Paste

The storage and shelf life of frozen tomato paste is very important to maintain its quality for a long time. Tomato paste in the freezer can last up to six months, however, for the best flavor and consistency. It is mostly recommended to use it within three months. Always check for signs of freezer burn or spoilage before using thawed tomato paste. If the color or texture appears significantly altered, it's advisable to discard it.

Tips

• Opt for containers or bags designed for freezing to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
• Measuring spoons will help you portion the tomato paste accurately.
• Mark the containers or freezer bags with the date and contents using labels and markers. This will help you keep track of the paste's freshness and easily identify the portion sizes when needed.
• Remember not to overcrowd the freezer, as proper air circulation is essential for optimal freezing.

Related post - How long does tomato paste last in the fridge (does it go bad)

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