Using Tomato Paste + Water Instead of Canned Tomatoes: Exact Ratio

Canned Tomatoes provides texture, moisture, and flavor in cooking and baking. When you substitute Tomato Paste + Water at a ratio of 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 cup water = about 1/2 cup canned tomatoes, you preserve the key properties needed for sauces and stews and chili and braises.

There is a noticeable difference in the final result: deeper, more concentrated tomato flavor. The result will be richer but may lack the fresh, bright notes of canned tomatoes. This trade-off is generally acceptable in sauces where the substitute's other qualities compensate.

As a plant-based option, tomato paste + water also makes this swap suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets without sacrificing the role that canned tomatoes plays in the recipe.

Nutritional and safety data referenced from USDA FoodData Central (nutritional composition data) and FoodSafety.gov (food allergen and safety information).

1. Measure the substitute. For every amount of canned tomatoes your recipe calls for, use 2 tbsp tomato paste + 1/2 cup water = about 1/2 cup canned tomatoes. Use standard measuring cups or a kitchen scale for accuracy.
2. Prepare if needed. Add tomato paste + water at the same point in the recipe where you would normally add canned tomatoes.
3. Mix into your recipe. Add the substitute where the original ingredient is called for. Mix thoroughly to distribute evenly. This method works especially well in sauces, stews, chili, braises.
4. Adjust and taste. After combining, check the consistency of your batter, dough, or mixture. Since this substitute changes the flavor profile slightly, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Keep in mind: tomato paste is much more concentrated and sweeter than canned tomatoes.

Tomatoes that are peeled, processed, and sealed in cans at peak ripeness. Available as whole, diced, crushed, or pureed. A kitchen essential for sauces, soups, stews, chili, and braises that provides consistent tomato flavor year-round.

People substitute canned tomatoes for a variety of reasons: dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free cooking), allergies or intolerances, running out mid-recipe, or simply preferring a different flavor profile. Whatever the reason, the key is matching the functional role that canned tomatoes plays, which is primarily texture, moisture, and flavor.

One 14.5 oz can of tomatoes equals about 1.75 cups including liquid. For recipes needing chunky tomatoes, dice fresh ones or use whole canned tomatoes and crush by hand. For smooth sauces, tomato paste diluted with water gives the most concentrated flavor.

Tomato Paste + Water is one of 4 alternatives you can use instead of canned tomatoes. For a complete list of canned tomatoes substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full canned tomatoes substitute page.