Tomato paste is a staple in many kitchens. From spaghetti sauce to lasagna, this thick tomato puree gives foods an extra punch of flavor and thickness. But what happens if you don’t use it all? Can you freeze it? How long does tomato paste last in the fridge or freezer after being opened? And how do you tell when it goes bad? We’ll answer all these questions and more in this article!
How to store tomato paste?
We know that once we open a jar of tomato paste, there’s no going back. The best way to store leftovers is by freezing them into ice cube trays so they will be easy to measure out later on when needed.
If you want to keep tomato paste for a little longer, store it in an airtight container and stick it in the fridge. If you’re using dried herbs or spices with your tomatoes, add them closer to when they’ll be used so that their flavor will have time to mix in.
Can you freeze tomato paste?
If you’re planning on freezing tomato paste, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion as it freezes and then fills up with water vapors from being in such a cold environment. You can also use vacuum sealers or similar devices if available for better long-term preservation.
Tomato pastes last for about six months after opening. After that, it starts to lose flavor and texture.
How long does it last in the fridge?
If you’re not sure when the tomato paste has gone bad or if it’s a good idea to freeze, there are a few signs of spoilage you can look for: moldy odors; black spots from oxidation on the fruit skins; off-flavors from oxidized fats, and a change in the pH level. If you have any of those symptoms or are unsure if it’s still good to eat, toss it out!
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you answer your tomato paste questions! If you’re not sure how long it will last or if the one in your fridge is good to eat, just follow these tips and tricks.