Tomato puree, a smooth, concentrated paste made from cooked and strained tomatoes, serves as a foundational ingredient in a diverse range of culinary applications. It provides a rich tomato flavor and thickens sauces, stews, and soups. Examples include classic Italian pasta sauces, flavorful Indian curries, and hearty Mexican chili.
The use of this versatile ingredient contributes depth of flavor and improved texture to many dishes. Its concentrated nature allows for efficient flavor delivery, minimizing the liquid content and maximizing tomato essence. Historically, tomato puree has been employed as a method of preserving tomatoes, extending their usability beyond the fresh harvest season and enabling year-round availability in various cuisines.