Substitute for Tomato Paste

Perfect tomato paste alternatives for sauces, soups, and stews. Fresh and canned options that deliver umami.

Cooking Updated: September 27, 2025 vegetarian vegan gluten-free

Quick Answer

The best substitutes for tomato paste are: Tomato Sauce (Reduced), Crushed Tomatoes (Reduced), Sun-Dried Tomatoes + Water. Each works differently depending on your recipe needs.

Tomato paste provides concentrated tomato flavor and umami depth to countless dishes. These substitutes help when you’re out of paste or want different flavor profiles.

Tomato Paste’s Unique Properties

Tomato paste is highly concentrated (about 6:1 reduction), providing intense umami and tomato flavor without adding much liquid. It also adds natural glutamates that enhance savory dishes.

Best Practices for Substitution

When using liquid substitutes, reduce other liquids in your recipe or cook longer to concentrate flavors. Always taste and adjust - some substitutes are sweeter or more acidic than pure tomato paste.

Substitute for Canned Tomatoes - Fresh and dried tomato alternatives
Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce - Umami-rich flavor enhancers
Substitute for Soy Sauce - Savory depth builders for sauces
Substitute for Garlic - Essential aromatics for tomato-based dishes

Educational Disclaimer: This information is for cooking purposes only.

All Substitutes at a Glance

Substitute	Ratio	Best For	Notes
Tomato Sauce (Reduced)	Simmer 1 cup tomato sauce until reduced to 1/4 cup	pasta sauces, soups, when you have time	Most authentic flavor. Takes 15-20 minutes to reduce properly.
Crushed Tomatoes (Reduced)	Simmer 1 cup crushed tomatoes until thick	chunky sauces, rustic dishes	Creates slightly chunky texture. Strain for smooth paste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes + Water	1/4 cup sun-dried + 2 tbsp hot water = 2 tbsp paste	Mediterranean dishes, intense flavor	Soak, then blend. More intense, concentrated flavor.
Ketchup	1 tbsp ketchup = 1 tbsp tomato paste (reduce sugar elsewhere)	emergency substitute, barbecue sauces	Contains sugar and vinegar. Adjust recipe sweetness.
Fresh Tomatoes (Cooked Down)	4-5 large tomatoes = 1/4 cup paste	fresh tomato season, homemade sauces	Remove skins and seeds, cook until very thick.
Tomato Powder + Water	2 tbsp tomato powder + 1 tbsp water = 2 tbsp paste	camping, long-term storage, convenience	Mix to thick paste consistency. Adjust water as needed.