When the craving for red meat hits, there's nothing like a well-prepared beef stew to satisfy it. However, not all stews are created equal. The difference between a bland dish and a memorable one ...

Blend the skinned tomatoes in a food processor and sieve to remove the seeds. Heat until the tomato pulp has reduced to a thick paste. Use in pasta sauces, casseroles and soups.

Tomato paste is a favorite addition to braises ... but this might result in an overly salty or spicy dish as the flavors ...