Tomato paste is concentrated tomato for deep, caramelized flavor in sauces, stews, and chilis. Whether you ran out mid-recipe or need a dietary swap, here are the best substitutes for tomato paste, with exact amounts.
Use: 3 tbsp tomato sauce, simmered thick for 1 tbsp tomato paste
Simmer until reduced by two-thirds.
Less intense; reduce well.
Use: 1 tbsp for 1 tbsp tomato paste
Use in cooked sauces.
Sweeter — reduce other sugars slightly.
The best all-round substitute is Tomato sauce, reduced: use 3 tbsp tomato sauce, simmered thick for 1 tbsp tomato paste. Simmer until reduced by two-thirds. Less intense; reduce well.
Yes. Use 1 tbsp for 1 tbsp tomato paste. Use in cooked sauces. Sweeter — reduce other sugars slightly.
Vegan options: Tomato sauce, reduced, Ketchup.
Missing something else? Search all 48 ingredients in the substitute finder.