The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Tomato Puree Vs Marinara Sauce
What To Know
- It has a thinner consistency than tomato puree and a more balanced flavor profile, with a combination of acidity, sweetness, and umami.
- Marinara sauce is highly versatile and can be used as a topping for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
- If you want a versatile, flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, marinara sauce is the way to go.
Tomato puree and marinara sauce are both popular ingredients in Italian cooking, but they have distinct differences in texture, flavor, and usage. Understanding these differences is crucial for creating delicious and authentic Italian dishes.
Tomato Puree: The Thick and Savory Base
Tomato puree is made from tomatoes that have been cooked down and strained to remove the skins and seeds. The resulting thick, concentrated paste has a deep red color and a rich, savory flavor. It is often used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews, adding a burst of tomato flavor without adding significant liquid.
Marinara Sauce: The Versatile and Flavorful Classic
Marinara sauce is a type of tomato sauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices. It has a thinner consistency than tomato puree and a more balanced flavor profile, with a combination of acidity, sweetness, and umami. Marinara sauce is highly versatile and can be used as a topping for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
Key Differences
| Feature | Tomato Puree | Marinara Sauce |
| — | — | — |
| Texture | Thick, concentrated paste | Thin, liquid sauce |
| Flavor | Rich, savory | Balanced, flavorful |
| Usage | Base for sauces, soups, stews | Topping for pasta, pizza, dipping sauce |
When to Use Tomato Puree
- As a base for sauces, soups, and stews
- To thicken and intensify the flavor of dishes
- To add a rich tomato flavor without adding liquid
- When a concentrated tomato flavor is desired
When to Use Marinara Sauce
- As a topping for pasta and pizza
- As a dipping sauce for breadsticks and vegetables
- In dishes where a balanced tomato flavor is desired
- When a thinner, more liquid sauce is required
Other Considerations
- Saltiness: Tomato puree is typically saltier than marinara sauce, so it’s important to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Acidity: Marinara sauce is typically more acidic than tomato puree, so it may need to be balanced with sweetness or creaminess.
- Spices: Marinara sauce often includes additional spices and herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice between tomato puree and marinara sauce depends on the specific dish you are making. If you need a thick, concentrated tomato flavor, tomato puree is the better option. If you want a versatile, flavorful sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, marinara sauce is the way to go.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which one is healthier, tomato puree or marinara sauce?
A: Tomato puree is typically lower in calories and fat than marinara sauce, but it also has a higher sodium content.
Q: Can I substitute marinara sauce for tomato puree?
A: Yes, you can use marinara sauce as a substitute for tomato puree, but you may need to adjust the seasoning and consistency.
Q: Can I make marinara sauce from tomato puree?
A: Yes, you can make marinara sauce from tomato puree by adding onions, garlic, herbs, and spices.
