Tomato Paste - can or tube?

twinsister · ‎03-12-2010

I use tomato paste in a few recipes, but never need a whole can and end up throwing some out. I want to try the tube since it won't be as wasteful, but not sure how long it will last once opened.

If you use the tube, any brand recommendations? Thanks.

We rescue cats · ‎01-25-2023

I use both, right now I'm using up the cans I have. I don't use the entire can either so I put the leftover in a zip lock bag, flatten it out and then make it into 'blocks' and freeze it. The tubes I use are Delallo or Cento.

Lynn-Critter Lover!
(especially cats!)

Bookplate · ‎08-19-2011

They are all fine; I have used several brands, most recently Trader Joe's. They last a very long time refrigerated, as do tubes of anchovy paste and pesto.

However, if you do open a small can of paste and don't use it all, I suggest you make a few small squares of aluminum foil, place one tablespoon of paste in each one, wrap the foil around the paste and freeze them individually. Then you just take one or two out of the freezer as needed.

Sooner · ‎03-10-2010

I use tomato paste so infrequently it isn't worth trying to save it. The tubes are something that gets smashed and lost in the fridge or pantry.

I buy the small cans, use what I need and toss the rest. It is smarter for me money wise and storage wise.

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

I use the tubes---one is in my refer now--so much easier to store and use ---I was opening the tiny can and using a tablespoon then try to freeze it in that mount--what a pain!!

twinsister · ‎03-12-2010

Thanks everyone for your suggestions, especially about freezing the unused portions. I'm going to try the tube, but if I buy the small can again will freeze the remainder.

Harpa · ‎03-10-2010

Jar. Unused portion gets refrigerated.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

I've kept cans of tomato paste in the cupboard too long and had them literally blow up. What a mess that was. I think tubes are a great idea

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

annie315 · ‎03-17-2010

I buy a bag of tomato powder sold by various spice shops online..I shop Atlantic Spice.

that way I spoon the powder in a small bowl and add water to use as tomato paste. The powder lasts a long time.

Bookplate · ‎08-19-2011

@annie315 wrote:
I buy a bag of tomato powder sold by various spice shops online..I shop Atlantic Spice.
that way I spoon the powder in a small bowl and add water to use as tomato paste. The powder lasts a long time.

@annie315 Yes! I forgot about this; great stuff. I think I got mine from nuts.com. It's not exactly the same thing as a paste, obviously, but it is close and is even more useful I think.