Tomato paste is a staple in many kitchens, known for its ability to deepen flavors and add richness to a variety of dishes. De-Rica Tomato Paste is rich with concentrated flavor and smooth texture. Its concentrated tomato flavor is the heart of many traditional dishes and it can be used in more ways than you might think. Here are 11 creative ways to use it to add flavor and color to your meals.

1. Jollof Rice

The quintessential West African dish, Jollof rice, is incomplete without the rich, red hue that De-Rica Tomato Paste provides. It's the foundation of the spicy tomato sauce that the rice is simmered in, along with peppers, onions, and spices.

2. Nigerian Stew

This versatile stew serves as a base for many Nigerian dishes. De-Rica Tomato Paste adds body and a deep tomato flavor to the stew, which can be paired with rice, yams, or used as a sauce for meats.

Also Read: WHY DE-RICA TOMATO PASTE IS A KITCHEN MUST-HAVE

3. Pepper Soup

A comforting and spicy soup, often made with fish or goat, pepper soup gets a flavorful kick from De-Rica Tomato Paste. It's perfect for warming up on a rainy day.

4. Egusi Soup

Egusi soup, made with ground melon seeds, spinach, and assorted meats, is thickened and enriched with De-Rica Tomato Paste, giving it a savory depth that complements the nuttiness of the egusi.

5. Moi Moi

Moi Moi is a steamed bean pudding often enjoyed as a side dish. A spoonful of De-Rica Tomato Paste mixed into the batter enhances its color and adds a tangy twist to the savory flavors.

6. Ofada Sauce

This spicy sauce, typically served with Ofada rice, is made vibrant with the addition of De-Rica Tomato Paste. It's a perfect blend of heat, sweetness, and umami.

7. Okra Soup

Okra soup is a staple in West African cuisine. De-Rica Tomato Paste melds with the okra's sliminess, creating a rich and hearty soup that's often served with fufu.

Also Read: 5 TYPES OF NIGERIAN PEPPER SOUP YOU SHOULD TRY

8. Ayamase

Also known as designer stew, Ayamase is a spicy green pepper sauce. De-Rica Tomato Paste balances the green peppers and adds a robustness to the sauce that's hard to resist.

9. Gbegiri Soup

Gbegiri is a creamy bean soup that's part of the classic Nigerian dish, Abula. De-Rica Tomato Paste not only adds color but also a savory note that complements the beans' natural flavor.

10. Nkwobi

A popular Igbo dish, Nkwobi is a spicy cow foot stew. Tomato paste is used sparingly, but it's crucial in achieving the right consistency and flavor profile.

11. Efo Riro

A rich vegetable stew, Efo Riro is made with leafy greens, peppers, and an array of meats or fish. De-Rica Tomato Paste enriches the stew, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Also Read: YELLOW GARRI VS. WHITE GARRI: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Other uses include: 

1. Homemade Ketchup

Whisk together tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, and spices for a quick, homemade ketchup that's free from preservatives and can be customized to your taste.

2. Marinade for Meats

Combine tomato paste with olive oil, garlic, and herbs to create a marinade that will tenderize and flavor your meats before grilling or roasting.

3. Enhanced Vegetable Roasts

Toss your favorite vegetables with a mixture of tomato paste and olive oil before roasting to add a subtle tang and beautiful color.

4. Base for Pizza Sauce

Use De-Rica Tomato Paste as the base for a quick pizza sauce. Add some water, seasonings, and a bit of olive oil, and you've got a sauce that's ready in minutes.

5. Thickener for Sauces

If you find your sauce is too thin, a small amount of tomato paste can act as a thickener without altering the flavor too much.

6. Coloring Agent for Food

Natural food coloring can be tricky, but tomato paste can add a lovely red hue to pastas, rice, and stews.

7. Enhance Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes

Tomato paste adds umami and depth to vegan and vegetarian dishes, making it a great addition to lentil ragouts, veggie burgers, and more.

Rounding off

Adding De-Rica Tomato Paste into your African dishes not only enriches the flavor but also adds a touch of tradition to every meal. Remember, a little goes a long way with tomato paste. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to achieve the desired flavor and consistency. Don’t forget that My Sasun African Store is your best African grocery store in the United States and Canada. Place your order today for De-Rica Tomato Paste and all African Ingredients for your kitchen. My Sasun delivers to your doorsteps and our stores at Celina and Houston are open for walk-ins as well. See you next time!