The best substitutes for Tomato Puree are Tomato Sauce, Tomato Paste, Pizza Sauce, Marinara Sauce, and Passata.
Tomato Sauce is the closest match - it has a similar flavor and works at a 1:1 ratio in most recipes.
For cooking, Tomato Paste also works well - adjust the amount to taste.
Caught in a pickle because your recipe calls for tomato puree and you're fresh out?
You're not alone.
Is, it's totally doable to swap it out and still whip up something delicious.
Here are the top tomato puree substitutes.
And trust us, these swaps are solid options.
From canned tomatoes to ketchup, we've tested and tasted to find the best alternatives.
Our kitchen escapades have uncovered some seriously tasty tricks.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Tomato Puree
For those looking for a delicious yet slightly healthier alternative to tomato puree, we've got five great substitutes that will do the trick.
| Substitute | Key Characteristics | Substitute Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato Sauce | Smooth and thin consistency, slightly diluted flavor | Use as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree |
| Tomato Paste | Thick and concentrated, intense tomato flavor | Dilute 1 part tomato paste with 1 part water or broth to obtain a similar consistency |
| Pizza Sauce | Seasoned tomato sauce used for pizza | Use as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree |
| Marinara Sauce | Tomato-based sauce with herbs and spices | Use as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree |
| Passata | Smooth and thick tomato puree | Use as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree |
When looking to improve your recipes and in need of substitutes for tomato puree, consider these five options:
1 - Tomato Sauce
The perfect tomato sauce is sweet and savory, with just a hint of acidity.
It's smooth and silky yet thick enough to coat a piece of pasta.
It's simple yet complex. In short, it's the perfect food.
And it's incredibly easy to make at home.
All you need are some ripe tomatoes, a few basic seasonings, and time.
The result is a sauce that is infinitely better than anything you could buy at the store.
It can be used as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree, providing a similar texture and taste.
2 - Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a popular ingredient in many recipes, including pasta sauce, chili, and stews.
It is made by cooking tomatoes down to a thick paste.
The result is a rich, flavorful sauce that can add depth and complexity to any dish.
Tomato paste is available in both canned and jarred form, and it can be found in the aisle of most supermarkets.
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to add some extra flavor to your favorite recipes, reach for the tomato paste next time in the kitchen.
To use tomato paste as a substitute for tomato puree, dilute 1 part tomato paste with 1 part water or broth to achieve a similar consistency.
3 - Pizza Sauce
Pizza sauce is a tomato-based sauce typically used on pizza.
It is traditionally made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
However, there are many variations of pizza sauce, and many different ingredients can be used to create unique flavors.
Pizza sauce can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes, and a variety of herbs and spices can be added to create different flavors.
The type of cheese used on the pizza can also impact the sauce's flavor.
For example, mozzarella cheese will give the sauce a sweeter taste, while provolone cheese will add a sharpness to the flavor.
It can serve as a 1:1 substitution for tomato puree, adding additional flavors that can improve your recipes.
4 - Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is a type of tomato sauce usually made from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
The sauce originated in Italy, and its name comes from the Italian word for "marinated.
" Marinara sauce is often used as a dipping sauce or a pasta sauce, and it can also be used as a pizza topping.
Marinara sauce is typically made with crushed tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Sometimes, other ingredients such as onions, carrots, celery, or wine are added to the sauce.
Marinara sauce is relatively easy to make at home, and it can also be found in many supermarkets.
It can be used as a substitute for tomato puree in a 1:1 ratio to provide a well-seasoned base for your dishes.
5 - Passata
Passata is a type of tomato sauce that originated in Italy.
Unlike other tomato sauces, passata is made from strained tomatoes, giving it a smooth, velvety texture.
It is also relatively simple, requiring only tomatoes, salt, and lemon juice.
Passata can be used in various dishes, from pasta sauces to pizza toppings.
It can also be enjoyed as a dipping sauce or spread.
Whether you're looking for a quick and easy way to add flavor to your cooking or want to explore the world of Italian cuisine, passata is a great place to start.
It offers a concentrated tomato flavor and a similar consistency, making it an excellent option to improve your recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tomato Sauce, Tomato Paste, Pizza Sauce, Marinara Sauce, and Passata. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Tomato Puree.
Yes. Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste work as direct replacements in most recipes.
Use the same quantity and adjust seasoning after tasting.
Usually not, but check moisture content. Wetter substitutes may need a slightly higher temperature or longer cook time to evaporate excess liquid and achieve the right texture.
Is the substitute appropriate for all dietary restrictions?
Check labels carefully.
Many substitutes introduce allergens or ingredients that conflict with specific diets - dairy, gluten, soy, or nuts may appear in processed alternatives.