Paste (food)

Paste (food)

Shrimp paste used in sambal belacan

Paste in the context of food refers to a semi-solid, spreadable substance that is often used as a condiment, ingredient, or base for various dishes. Food pastes are typically made by grinding or blending ingredients into a smooth, thick consistency. They can be savory or sweet and are used in a wide range of culinary traditions around the world.

Types of Food Pastes

Shrimp Paste

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Acetes paste from Vietnam

Shrimp paste is a fermented condiment commonly used in Southeast Asian and Southern Chinese cuisines. It is made from finely crushed shrimp or krill mixed with salt and fermented for several weeks. The paste is known for its strong aroma and flavor, which enhances dishes such as sambal, curry, and stir-fry.

Duxelles

Duxelles, a finely chopped mixture of mushrooms

Duxelles is a finely chopped mixture of mushrooms, onions, shallots, and herbs sautéed in butter, and reduced to a paste. It is used in French cuisine as a stuffing or garnish, particularly in dishes like beef Wellington. Duxelles can be made with various types of mushrooms, including button mushrooms and porcini.

Tomato Paste

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A can of tomato paste

Tomato paste is a thick paste made by cooking tomatoes for several hours to reduce moisture, straining them to remove seeds and skin, and cooking again to reduce the base to a thick, rich concentrate. It is used to add depth of flavor to sauces, soups, and stews. Tomato paste is a staple in Italian cuisine and is often used in pasta sauce and pizza sauce.

Erbswurst

Erbswurst, a traditional German pea soup paste

Erbswurst is a traditional German pea soup paste that was invented in the 19th century. It consists of dried peas, pork fat, and spices, formed into a paste and then shaped into a sausage-like roll. Erbswurst can be sliced and dissolved in hot water to make a quick and hearty pea soup.

Uses of Food Pastes

Food pastes are versatile and can be used in various ways:

• As a base for sauces and soups
• As a spread on bread or crackers
• As a filling or stuffing for pastries and dumplings
• As a marinade or rub for meats

Related Pages

• Condiment
• Fermentation (food)
• Sauce
• Spread (food)