8 Amazing Substitutes For Crushed Tomatoes (+ PHOTOS)
June 27, 2022
Crushed tomatoes are a type of tomato product. They are made from tomatoes that have been peeled and then crushed or ground into a pulp. The resulting product is then strained to remove the seeds and skin.
Crushed tomatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, including soups, stews, sauces, and casseroles. They are also a common ingredient in pizza and chili. While fresh tomatoes can be used to make crushed tomatoes, the process is often quicker and easier with canned tomatoes.
However, it is important to choose a high-quality product in order to avoid an acidic or bitter taste. Crushed tomatoes can be found in most supermarkets and grocery stores.
What are Crushed Tomatoes Used For?
Crushed tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One common use is as a base for pasta sauce. Crushed tomatoes can also be used in soup or chili, as well as Mexican dishes such as enchiladas or tacos. They can also be used as a topping for pizza or baked potatoes.
In addition to being a delicious ingredient, crushed tomatoes are also nutritious. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which is an antioxidant that has been linked to health benefits such as reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
Whether you use them in your cooking or simply enjoy them straight out of the can, crushed tomatoes are a delicious and healthy food that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
10 Best Substitutes For Crushed Tomatoes
Looking for a Substitutes For Crushed Tomatoes? Check out these delicious and healthy options!
1. Fresh Tomatoes
Fresh tomatoes are always the best option for crushed tomatoes. They are incredibly easy to find and usually reasonably priced. Plus, you can control the level of acidity and sweetness by using different types of tomatoes. For a richer flavor, opt for Roma or plum tomatoes.
If you prefer a brighter flavor, go for beefsteak or cherry tomatoes. And if you want a more concentrated tomato flavor, choose vine-ripened tomatoes. No matter which type of tomato you use, always make sure they’re ripe.
The best way to test for ripeness is to give them a gentle squeeze. If they yield to pressure and have a slight give, they’re perfect for crushing.
2. Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a thick, concentrated tomato product that is often used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews. It is typically made from crushed tomatoes that have been cooked down until they are nearly dry.
This cooking process concentrates the natural sugars in the tomatoes, giving the paste a deep, rich flavor. Tomato paste is an excellent substitute for crushed tomatoes in recipes that call for a long cooking time.
The concentrated flavor will help to deepen the flavor of the dish without adding any additional acidity.
3. Diced Tomatoes
Diced tomatoes can be used in place of crushed tomatoes in most recipes. Simply chop them up into smaller pieces before adding them to your dish. It is a solid form of tomato sauce that can be used to add flavor and body to a dish in place of crushed tomatoes.
4. Tomato Sauce
I’m not a fan of crushing tomatoes. I find it too time-consuming, and the results are often watery and lackluster. So when I spotted a bottle of tomato sauce in the grocery store the other day, I thought, “Why not give it a try?” Turns out, it makes an excellent substitute for crushed tomatoes in recipes.
The sauce is already nicely seasoned and has a good balance of acidity and sweetness. Plus, it reduces cooking time since you don’t have to cook the tomatoes.
So if you’re looking for a shortcut in your cooking, give tomato sauce a try next time you need crushed tomatoes. You might just be pleasantly surprised.
5. Condensed Tomato Soup
While many people think of condensed tomato soup as a culinary disaster, this humble can of soup can actually be used as a versatile ingredient in a number of recipes. From homemade pizza sauce to hearty chili, condensed tomato soup can be used as a delicious and convenient substitute for crushed tomatoes.
Just add water to the soup and presto – you’ve got an instant sauce or soup base. So the next time you’re looking for an easy way to add some flavor to your cooking, reach for a can of condensed tomato soup. You may just be surprised at how useful it can be.
6. Sun-dried Tomatoes
I never really liked tomatoes. They’re too watery, and the seeds get stuck in my teeth. But my wife loves them, so I’ve learned to tolerate them.
However, I recently discovered a new way to enjoy tomatoes: sun-dried tomatoes. Sun-dried tomatoes are much drier than regular tomatoes, and they don’t have any seeds.
They also have a more intense flavor that is perfect for pasta sauce. Now, instead of using crushed tomatoes, I always use sun-dried tomatoes. And I have to say, I’m starting to enjoy tomatoes a lot more. Thanks, sun-dried tomatoes! You’ve made a tomato lover out of me.
7. Whole Peeled Tomatoes
Have you ever run out of crushed tomatoes and needed a substitute in a pinch? If you have whole peeled tomatoes on hand, you’re in luck! With a little time and effort, you can turn whole peeled tomatoes into the perfect stand-in for crushed tomatoes.
Here’s what you need to do: first, remove the stems and any bad spots from the tomatoes. Next, cut the tomatoes into small pieces – aim for about 1-inch chunks. Once your tomatoes are chopped, place them in a food processor or blender and pulse until they reach the desired consistency. And that’s it! In just a few minutes, you’ll have homemade crushed tomatoes that are ready to use in your favorite recipe.
Give it a try next time you’re in a bind and let us know how it goes!
8. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is a popular beverage and many people think of it as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks. However, you may be surprised to learn that tomato juice can also be used as a substitute for crushed tomatoes in recipes.
The next time you need to make a tomato-based sauce or soup, try using tomato juice instead of crushed tomatoes. You’ll find that the flavor is just as good and the texture is smoother. Plus, using tomato juice will save you time since you won’t need to chop up the tomatoes.
So if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make a delicious tomato-based dish, reach for the tomato juice instead of the canned tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: If I Use Whole Tomatoes, Should I Boil Them First?
Whole tomatoes definitely don’t need to be boiled before you use them, but it’s not a bad idea if you want to soften them up a bit. Boiling them will make them easier to work with, especially if you’re going to be pureeing or chopping them.
And it will also bring out their natural sweetness. So if you have the time, boiling your whole tomatoes for a few minutes before using them is definitely worth doing.
Q: What’s the Difference between Tomato Sauce and Crushed Tomatoes?
Tomato sauce is made from tomatoes that have been cooked down into a thick, flavorful paste. Crushed tomatoes, on the other hand, are simply whole tomatoes that have been crushed into smaller pieces. This gives them a chunky texture and a slightly different flavor than tomato sauce.
Q: How Long Do You Blanch Tomatoes to Get the Skin Off?
Blanching tomatoes is a quick and easy way to remove the skin. It takes about 20 seconds to a minute to blanch them depending on the size of the tomatoes.
After blanching, plunge the tomatoes into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. The skin will slip right off after they’re cool.
Q: How Do You Peel Tomatoes Without Blanching Them?
There are a few methods you can use to peel tomatoes without blanching them. One is to cut a small X in the bottom of the tomato and then place it in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove from the boiling water and plunge into ice water. The skins will slip off easily. Another option is to cut a small amount off the top of the tomato and then microwave on high for about 20 seconds. The skins will come off easily after that.
The easiest way, however, is to simply use a knife to slice off the skin of the tomato. Hold the tomato so that it doesn’t roll and slice downwards at an angle, being careful not to cut into the flesh of the tomato.
Q: Can I Freeze Crushed Tomatoes?
Yes, you can freeze crushed tomatoes. Just be sure to pack them into airtight containers or bags so that they don’t get freezer burn. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to six months.
When you’re ready to use them, just thaw them out in the fridge overnight or on the countertop for a few hours. You can then use them in recipes as is or cook them down into a sauce. Enjoy!
Q: Can I Use Tomato Sauce Instead of Crushed Tomatoes in Chili?
Well, technically you could use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes in chili. However, I would not recommend it as the sauce will make your chili more watery and thin. Crushed tomatoes will give your chili a thicker, more robust texture and flavor. So if you have a choice, go with crushed tomatoes over tomato sauce.
Q: Can Diced Tomatoes Be Used Instead of Crushed Tomatoes?
I would say that it really depends on the dish you are making. If you are making a sauce, then I think diced tomatoes could work, but if you are making something like a soup, then crushed tomatoes might be a better option since they will break down more easily and give the soup a smoother texture. Ultimately, it is up to you and what you think will taste best!
Q: What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use a food processor or blender to pulse whole tomatoes until they’re finely chopped. You could also try using diced tomatoes, though they won’t be as smooth as crushed tomatoes. If you’re in a pinch, tomato sauce or even tomato soup can work in a pinch. Hope this helps!
Q: Can diced tomatoes be used instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. They will have a slightly different texture, but the flavor won’t be affected much. Just make sure to drain the diced tomatoes before using them, so that your dish doesn’t end up too watery.
Q: What is the difference between crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes?
The difference between crushed and diced tomatoes is that crushed tomatoes are usually made from plum tomatoes which have been peeled, seeded and then crushed. Diced tomatoes are made from whole tomatoes that have been cut into small pieces.
Q: How do you make crushed tomatoes from fresh tomatoes?
To make crushed tomatoes from fresh tomatoes, you’ll need a food mill. First, cut the tomatoes in half and squeeze out the seeds. Then, run the tomato halves through a food mill to remove the skin and stem. The crushed tomatoes will be left in the food mill. If you don’t have a food mill, you can use a blender or food processor, but it won’t be as smooth. Enjoy!
Q: Can I Substitute Tomato Paste For Crushed Tomatoes?
Yes! Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, so it has a more intense flavor than crushed tomatoes. It’s also thicker, making it a good substitute for thickening sauces or stews. You can find tomato paste in the grocery store next to the canned tomatoes.
Q: Can I Substitute Tomato Puree For Crushed Tomatoes?
There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to substituting tomato puree for crushed tomatoes, but in general, you can use a 1:1 ratio. So if a recipe calls for one cup of crushed tomatoes, you can use one cup of tomato puree instead. Just keep in mind that the texture of your dish may be slightly different since pureed tomatoes are smoother than crushed ones.
Q: Are Peeled whole tomatoes the same as diced tomatoes?
Yes and no. Peeled whole tomatoes are, as the name suggests, whole tomatoes that have had their skins removed. Diced tomatoes, on the other hand, have been cut into small cubes.
So if you’re looking for something closer to a whole tomato, then go for the peeled option. If you want something that’s easier to use in recipes (or if you’re just looking for a little more surface area to brown), then diced tomatoes are the way to go.
Summing Up
I hope this post was helpful in showing you a few different substitutes for crushed tomatoes. Have you tried substituting crushed tomatoes for whole ones in your recipes? I’d love to hear how it goes if you do! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.
I always love hearing from my readers! Have a great day.
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