When you’re out of tomato paste, several substitutes can work well in chili or pasta sauce, depending on the desired flavor intensity and texture:[custom_list][custom_list_item name="Tomato Sauce or Puree (Reduced)" description="Simmer tomato sauce or puree to reduce and thicken it, concentrating the flavor closer to tomato paste. Use about three times the amount of sauce as tomato paste called for, then cook down to desired thickness."][custom_list_item name="Tomato Concentrate" description="If available, use tomato concentrate as a direct substitute, matching the quantity of tomato paste."][custom_list_item name="Ketchup" description="Ketchup can be a quick fix, adding sweetness and acidity, but use it sparingly due to its added sugar and spices."][custom_list_item name="Sundried Tomato Paste or Purée" description="These provide a rich, intense flavor; dilute slightly if needed to match tomato paste consistency."][custom_list_item name="Fresh Tomatoes (Cooked Down)" description="Blend fresh tomatoes and cook them slowly to thicken, though this requires more time and may be less intense."][/custom_list]For the richest flavor and thickest texture, reducing tomato sauce or puree is usually the best substitute in chili or pasta sauces.