What is food pastes?

Food pastes are thick, semi-solid ingredients made by grinding, smashing, or blending different types of foods using a pestle and mortar, food processor, blender, or food mill. They are commonly used as a base for many dishes and add flavor, texture, and richness to recipes.

Some common food pastes include tomato paste, curry paste, pesto, peanut butter, tahini, hummus, and miso paste. These pastes are shelf-stable and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for extended periods of time.

Food pastes are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, such as a spread on bread, mixed into sauces, used as a marinade, or added to soups and stews for depth of flavor. They are also commonly used in ethnic cuisines such as Thai, Indian, and Middle Eastern cooking.

When making a food paste, it's important to use fresh and quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor. Many food pastes can also be made at home, allowing for customization and control of the ingredients used.