Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated puree made by cooking and reducing tomatoes for several hours. It has a rich, deep flavor that adds a savory, tangy note to dishes.

Notes

Always stir tomato paste before use to ensure an even consistency. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator after opening to maintain freshness.

Uses

Base for sauces like marinara and bolognese
Flavor enhancer for soups and stews
Marinades for meats and vegetables
Pizza sauce foundation
Casserole ingredient for added depth

Replacements

Tomato sauce (reduced)
Sun-dried tomatoes (blended with water)
Crushed tomatoes (cooked down)
Ketchup (for a sweeter flavor)

Sardines in Olive Oil

Delightfully tender sardines bathed in rich, fragrant olive oil, offering a taste of the sea with every bite.

Manchego Cheese

Manchego cheese is a traditional Spanish cheese made from the milk of Manchega sheep, primarily produced in La Mancha, a region in central Spain. It is known for its firm texture and distinctive flavor profile, which ranges from mild and buttery in younger cheeses to sharp and tangy in aged varieties. The cheese's unique aroma often includes hints of grass and hay, reflecting the sheep's natural diet. When eaten, Manchego offers a pleasant firmness with a slightly grainy texture that melts beautifully when heated. In cooking, it browns well and can add a rich depth of flavor to dishes, making it versatile for both grating and melting applications.

Recipes to try

Thai Green Curry Shrimp with Snow Peas

Succulent shrimp bathed in a fragrant green curry sauce, brightened with crisp snow peas and a squeeze of lime.

Triple Berry Crisp with Almond Oat Topping

A rustic, golden-brown crisp with a bubbling mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries, crowned with a crunchy almond oat topping.