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Sometimes when you have to use a small can of tomato sauce, you may not need more than 3-4 tablespoons. Instead of keeping it the fridge, "just in case I need it" and then finding it after a month moldy, I pour the remaining sauce into ice cube trays and freeze them. When frozen, I pop them into zip loc bags. You can use them frozen right from the bag. I think 1 cube is maybe 1 1/2 Tbsp? I find it so easy!
By Clara from North Andover, MA
Before you use tomato paste in a recipe, open BOTH ends of the can, wrap in plastic wrap, and freeze. After frozen, push the paste out of one open end and slice off what you need. Re-wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice off as needed, no waste.
By Tori
Sometimes you only need a little bit of tomato paste, and the rest of the can spoils before you get a chance to use it. The pre-packaged 1-2 Tbsp. pouches are costly. Here is how to use it all:
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When you only need a partial can of tomato paste for a recipe, measure the unused portion by the tablespoon, place it in an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, place the cubes into a plastic bag and store in the freezer where they will be ready to use in your next recipe.
By Marie from West Dundee, IL
First lining icetray with non-stick spray will eliminate discoloration. (10/30/2007)
By Rhea
Save on dishwashing, just put Tablespoon sized dollops of tomato paste on foil or waxed paper covered cookie sheet, freeze, and then transfer to ziplock bags, store in the freezer. (10/30/2007)
By GraNita from Montclair, NJ
Did you know that you can buy pure tomato powder at The Spice House. (thespicehouse.com). It is a concentrate you mix with water to make either tomato paste or tomato sauce. Nice to have on hand. (11/02/2007)
By Wisgal
