Substituting tomato paste for tomatoes won't give you exactly the same texture or taste as when using tomatoes, but it comes close. Using tomato paste gives recipes a thicker pureed consistency than when using just tomatoes. Recipes using tomato paste won't have a fresh-tomato taste, but as tomato paste is still a tomato-based product, the taste will be similar.
Measure 2 tbsp. tomato paste into a 1 cup measuring cup.
Pour enough water or tomato juice into the measuring cup to fill the cup.
Empty the tomato paste and water into a bowl. Whisk well to thoroughly combine.
Use in place of tomatoes in your cooked recipes.
Tips
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This recipe is equal to 1 cup of tomato puree; make additional puree if your recipe calls for more tomatoes.
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Since tomato puree is less watery than cooked tomatoes, add extra water if your recipe needs it.