What’s the best way to make a smooth tomato puree at home?

Question

Get tips for skinless, seedless tomato puree with perfect texture.

Answer 1

The best way to make a smooth tomato puree at home involves blanching and peeling the tomatoes, then blending them thoroughly using a high-speed blender or food processor, and finally straining the puree to remove any seeds or skin.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating a smooth tomato puree at home is a simple process that yields a far superior result compared to store-bought options. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by washing your tomatoes thoroughly. Roma or plum tomatoes are ideal due to their meaty texture and fewer seeds.

2. Blanch and Peel: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Score an 'X' on the bottom of each tomato with a knife. This makes peeling easier. Drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for 30-60 seconds, or until the skin starts to peel back. Immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

3. Peel and Core: Once cooled, the skins should slip off easily. Peel the tomatoes and remove the core (the hard part where the stem was attached).

4. Blend: Place the peeled and cored tomatoes into a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth. For an even smoother puree, you can add a tablespoon or two of water if needed to help the blending process.

5. Strain (Optional but Recommended): For the smoothest possible puree, strain the blended tomatoes through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander. This removes any remaining seeds and skin particles. Use a spoon or spatula to press the puree through the sieve, discarding the solids left behind.

6. Use or Store: Your smooth tomato puree is now ready to use in your favorite recipes. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage. For freezing, portion the puree into ice cube trays or freezer-safe bags.

Pro Tip:

To enhance the flavor of your tomato puree, consider roasting the tomatoes before blending. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that's perfect for sauces and soups. Simply toss the peeled and cored tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until softened and slightly caramelized, before blending.