Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this homemade ketchup for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Second, it’s customizable; you can adjust the sweetness or spices to suit your taste. Lastly, it brings a fresh, vibrant flavor that store-bought ketchup simply cannot match. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking for a tasty dip for your snacks, this ketchup will be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes or 3 cups fresh tomatoes
- ¼ cup vinegar (apple cider or white vinegar)
- ¼ cup honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp paprika
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by preparing your tomatoes. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and roughly chop them. If you’re using canned tomatoes, simply open the can.
Step 2: In a blender, add the chopped fresh tomatoes or the canned whole tomatoes. Blend them until smooth, creating a rich tomato puree.
Step 3: Strain the blended tomatoes through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium saucepan. This step is crucial as it removes the seeds and skins, resulting in a smoother ketchup.
Step 4: Add the vinegar, honey (or your chosen sweetener), black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and paprika to the strained tomato puree. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the ketchup thickening as it cooks. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
This homemade ketchup is perfect for dipping fries, slathering on burgers, or adding to meatloaf. It also works wonderfully as a base for barbecue sauce or as an ingredient in various recipes that call for ketchup. Try it with grilled vegetables, or use it as a spread on sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips:
- For a spicier ketchup, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a sweeter ketchup, feel free to increase the amount of honey or sugar.
- Store your homemade ketchup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for 3-4 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 6 months.
- Experiment with different vinegars, such as balsamic or red wine vinegar, for a unique flavor profile.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
Calories: 15
Protein: 0.3g
Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
Making your own ketchup at home is not only satisfying but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. This homemade ketchup recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic condiment with a fresh twist. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your tomatoes, and get ready to savor the taste of homemade goodness!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned whole tomatoes for this recipe. They are convenient and provide a rich flavor. - How long does this ketchup last in the fridge?
Your homemade ketchup can last for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. - Can I adjust the sweetness of the ketchup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more or less sweetener according to your taste preferences. - What types of vinegar work best for this recipe?
Both apple cider vinegar and white vinegar work well, but you can also experiment with other types like red wine vinegar for a different flavor. - Is this ketchup suitable for canning?
This recipe is not designed for canning, as it does not include the necessary acidity levels for safe preservation. It is best enjoyed fresh or frozen.
