Muir Glen organic tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and flavor to countless dishes. Made from sun-ripened California tomatoes, this paste is USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. The tomatoes are cooked down into a thick, double-concentrated paste that packs a powerful punch of tomato flavor.
Convenient and flavorful, Muir Glen tomato paste comes in both cans and tubes. It’s an essential pantry staple for home cooks and professional chefs alike. The paste can be used to enhance tomato sauces, soups, stews, and even unconventional recipes like sloppy joes or meatballs.
Muir Glen’s commitment to organic farming methods ensures a superior product. Their tomatoes are grown in rich California soil, tended by farmers who prioritize sustainable practices. This dedication to quality shines through in the bright, bold taste of their tomato paste.
Overview of Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste
Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste is a premium product made from organic tomatoes grown in California. These juicy tomatoes are harvested at peak ripeness and cooked down into a thick, concentrated paste.
The product contains no added salt, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. It is USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Muir Glen packages its tomato paste in cans with BPA-free liners, addressing concerns about food safety. The paste is available in 6 oz cans and resealable pouches for convenience.
This versatile ingredient adds depth and rich tomato flavor to soups, sauces, and various dishes. Its concentrated form makes it economical, as a little goes a long way in recipes.
Nutritionally, Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste is low in calories and fat-free. It provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
The company’s commitment to organic farming practices supports soil health and biodiversity. This aligns with their mission to produce high-quality, flavorful tomato products.
Nutritional Profile
Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste offers a concentrated source of nutrients in a small serving size. It provides essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories and fat.
Calories and Macronutrients
A single serving (33g) of Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste contains 30 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is approximately 86% carbohydrates, 14% protein, and 0% fat. It provides 1g of protein and 4g of total sugars per serving.
The tomato paste is free from saturated fat, trans fat, and added sugars. Its low calorie density of 91 calories per 100g makes it a suitable option for those watching their calorie intake.
Vitamins and Minerals
Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. It provides 8% of the Daily Value (DV) for Vitamin A and 4% DV for iron, based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
The paste also contains trace amounts of calcium. While not a significant source of Vitamin C, potassium, or Vitamin D, it still contributes small amounts of these nutrients to the diet.
Its concentrated form allows for easy incorporation of these nutrients into various dishes, enhancing their nutritional value without adding excessive calories or fat.
Health Considerations
Muir Glen organic tomato paste offers several nutritional benefits while being suitable for various dietary needs. It contains minimal additives and is free from common allergens.
Dietary Restrictions
Muir Glen organic tomato paste is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product is also Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Organic, appealing to consumers seeking natural food options.
It’s low in calories and fat-free, fitting well into weight management diets. The paste is naturally cholesterol-free, supporting heart health.
Sodium content is minimal, beneficial for individuals on low-sodium diets. However, exact sodium levels may vary, so checking the label is advisable.
Allergens and Additives
Muir Glen organic tomato paste is free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and soy. This makes it a safe choice for many with food allergies.
The product contains naturally derived citric acid, which enhances flavor and acts as a preservative. Some individuals may be sensitive to citric acid, though reactions are rare.
The packaging is BPA-free, addressing concerns about chemical leaching. This feature is particularly important for canned tomato products due to their acidity.
The paste is rich in vitamin A and provides some iron, contributing to overall nutritional intake. It’s a concentrated source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits.
Environmental and Certification Information
Muir Glen organic tomato paste carries several important certifications that reflect its commitment to environmental stewardship and quality. The product is USDA Certified Organic, ensuring it meets strict federal guidelines for organic production.
This certification prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in growing the tomatoes. It also bans genetically modified organisms (GMOs) from the production process.
The Non-GMO Project Verified seal further reinforces Muir Glen’s dedication to avoiding genetically engineered ingredients. This independent verification provides additional assurance to consumers concerned about GMOs in their food.
Organic farming practices used to grow Muir Glen tomatoes help protect soil health and biodiversity. These methods typically use less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional farming.
By choosing organic, Muir Glen supports farmers who prioritize sustainable agriculture. This approach aims to maintain ecological balance and conserve natural resources for future generations.
The certifications on Muir Glen organic tomato paste offer transparency about its production methods. They allow consumers to make informed choices aligned with their values regarding food quality and environmental impact.
Usage and Storage
Muir Glen Organic Tomato Paste is a versatile ingredient in cooking. It can be used to thicken sauces, soups, and stews. The paste also adds rich tomato flavor to pasta dishes, meatloaf, and casseroles.
For best results, mix the tomato paste with other liquids before adding to recipes. This helps distribute the flavor evenly. A small amount goes a long way due to its concentrated nature.
Unopened cans of tomato paste can be stored in a cool, dry pantry for up to 18 months. Once opened, transfer any unused paste to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Refrigerated tomato paste typically lasts 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze leftover paste in tablespoon-sized portions using an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
Frozen tomato paste cubes can be stored for up to 3 months. Simply thaw a cube as needed for recipes. This method reduces waste and ensures you always have tomato paste on hand.
Cooking with Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a versatile ingredient that enhances flavors and thickens dishes. It’s concentrated form packs a punch of umami and tomato essence in small amounts.
Recipes
Muir Glen organic tomato paste shines in many recipes. It forms the base for rich pasta sauces, adding depth to marinara or bolognese. For a quick pizza sauce, mix tomato paste with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
In soups and stews, a tablespoon of tomato paste builds flavor. Add it to minestrone or beef stew for richness. For a twist, blend tomato paste into homemade salad dressings or vinaigrettes.
Tomato paste elevates meatloaf and meatballs. Mix it into the ground meat for moisture and flavor. It also works well in chili, enhancing the tomato notes without adding excess liquid.
Tips and Tricks
When using Muir Glen organic tomato paste, a little goes a long way. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste. To intensify flavors, cook tomato paste for a few minutes before adding other ingredients.
Store unused paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Freezing in tablespoon portions allows for easy future use. For convenience, look for tomato paste in tubes, which stay fresh longer after opening.
To reduce acidity, add a pinch of sugar or baking soda when cooking with tomato paste. Pair tomato paste with complementary herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for enhanced flavor profiles.