Want to save cooking time during busy weekdays? This Homemade Tomato Garlic Paste is a simple and flavourful Indian kitchen staple that can instantly elevate your curries, gravies, chutneys, and rice dishes. Made with fresh tomatoes and garlic, this preservative-free paste is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
One of the best things about this tomato garlic base is its versatility. You can use it in Indian gravies instead of fresh tomatoes, or simply mix it with salt and red chilli powder to make a quick instant tomato chutney for rushed mornings. Just remember — while grinding, do not add water if you plan to store the paste.
Ingredients Required
- ½ kg tomatoes, chopped
- 20–25 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2–3 tsp oil
Method
Heat oil in a kadai and add the finely chopped garlic cloves.
Sauté on low flame until the garlic turns light golden brown and releases a rich aroma.
Now add the chopped tomatoes and cook on simmer flame. Allow the tomatoes to soften and mash well naturally.
Continue cooking until all the moisture from the tomatoes evaporates. This process may take around 10 minutes and helps the paste stay fresh longer.
Once the mixture cools completely, grind it into a smooth paste without adding water.
Store the prepared Tomato Garlic Paste in a clean airtight container in the refrigerator. Use this flavourful Indian curry base in gravies, curries, tomato rice, masala dishes, or quick chutneys.
Tips for Storage
- Do not add water while grinding if storing for later use.
- Always use a dry spoon while taking the paste from the container.
- Refrigerated paste stays fresh for about one week.
- If water is added, use the paste immediately.
