Tomato Puree vs Paste: Science-Based Differences & Substitution Guide
Tomato puree and tomato paste are not interchangeable pantry staples—they differ fundamentally in water content, concentration, Maillard reaction development, and functional behavior in cooking. Puree contains ~65–75% water and retains fresh-acidic brightness; paste is reduced to 10–25% water, with caramelized…