[7 Effective Steps to Save] How Long Does Tomato Paste Last In The Fridge?

Living in the 21st century has its perks. We have access to electricity, plumbing, and a wide variety of foods worldwide. We can also buy pre-made tomato paste in a can, which is shelf-stable for up to two years. Tomato paste needs to be refrigerated because it’s a cooked food product. 

Cooked foods are more susceptible to bacterial growth, so it’s essential to keep them refrigerated. And that’s where things can get a little tricky. In this post, We’ll also answer the burning question: How long does tomato paste last in the fridge? We’ll go over the canned and tomato paste you can produce at home.

Is there a difference between canned and homemade tomato paste regarding taste or texture?”

When it comes to taste, there is a difference between canned and homemade tomato paste. Canned tomato paste has a more intense flavor because it is cooked for a longer period of time. Homemade tomato paste tastes fresher but doesn’t have the same depth of flavor.

As far as texture goes, both types of tomato paste are smooth. However, canned tomato paste is usually thicker than homemade tomato paste. This is because water is removed from canned tomato paste during the canning process.

However, both types of tomato pastes will thicken as they cool. So, if you are looking for a particular texture, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

1. How long does tomato paste last in the fridge?

How long does tomato paste last in the fridge? The answer may surprise you!

Canned Tomato Paste

When it comes to canned tomato paste, there are two types: with salt and without salt. The one without salt has a shorter shelf life because it doesn’t have the preservative properties of salt. Once you open a can of either type, the tomato paste should last about five to seven days in the fridge.

You can extend its shelf life by transferring the tomato paste into an airtight container. Be sure to remove any excess air from the container before sealing it tightly. This will help to prevent bacteria growth.

Tomato Paste You Make at Home

You can also make your tomato paste from scratch using fresh tomatoes. The process is simple: Cook the tomatoes down until they’re nice and thick, then strain out the seeds and skin. The final product should last about two weeks in the fridge.

The canned tomato paste will last five to seven days, and homemade tomato paste will last two weeks. Be sure to store both types in an airtight container to help extend their shelf life.

2. How can you tell if tomato paste has gone bad?

Have you ever been in the middle of cooking and realized that your tomato paste has gone bad? No worries, we’ve all been there. But how long does tomato paste last in the fridge, anyway? Here’s a quick guide to help you determine whether that jar of tomato paste in your fridge is still good to use.

Visually Inspecting Your Tomato Paste

The first thing you’ll want to do is take a look at the tomato paste. Does it look discolored or have any weird lumps in it? If so, it’s probably time to toss it out. However, if it seems normal, it’s probably still good to use. 

Smelling Your Tomato Paste 

Next, take a sniff of the tomato paste. Does it smell off? If so, then it’s probably time to get rid of it. However, if it smells fine, you’re good to go to use it.

Tasting Your Tomato Paste 

Finally, give the tomato paste a taste. If it tastes off, then it’s time to toss it. However, if it tastes fine, then you can use it even after five days.

Now that we’ve answered the question “how long does tomato paste last in the fridge and how to know if it has gone bad”, let’s talk about how to store tomato paste so that it lasts as long as possible. Let’s talk about how to store it correctly.

7 effective tips for using and storing tomato paste

If you want your tomato paste to last a little longer, you can do a few things to help extend its shelf life or save it from being wasted.

1. If you only need a small amount of tomato paste, use a clean spoon to scoop out the desired amount from the can, then store the rest in a clean, airtight container in the fridge.
2. You can also freeze tomato paste in an ice cube tray or in a freezer-safe container. Once frozen, transfer the tomato paste cubes to a storage bag.
3. When cooking with tomato paste, be sure to add it near the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t burn.
4. Tomato paste can be a great addition to sauces, stews, and soups. Try adding it to your next batch of chili or spaghetti sauce for an extra flavor boost.
5. To add some depth of flavor to tomato-based dishes, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the recipe. This will intensify the flavor of the tomato paste.
6. When using tomato paste in a recipe, be sure to add some acidity to balance out the flavor. A splash of vinegar or lemon juice will do the trick.
7. Get creative with your use of tomato paste. Try adding it to roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even pizza. The possibilities are endless.

 

To Sum Up

Now you know everything there is to know about tomato paste. How long it lasts, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and some tips for using and storing it. So the next time you’re in the middle of cooking and reach for that jar of tomato paste, you’ll know exactly what to do.

We hope this post answered all your questions about tomato paste. If not, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us directly. And don’t forget to check out our other blog posts for more tips on living your best life. Thanks for reading!