Aunt Mary'S Chili Sauce

Prep: 120 min Cook: 360 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A flavorful, tangy chili sauce with tomatoes, vinegar, spices, and vegetables, perfect for serving with roast beef or pork, adding a zesty homemade touch to your meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 quart peeled tomatoes
  • 2 medium onions, chopped fine
  • 1 green pepper, chopped fine
  • 1/2 pint vinegar
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Peel and quarter the tomatoes.
  2. Let the tomatoes stand for at least 2 hours to drain off excess juice.
  3. Mix all ingredients in a large pot.
  4. Cook the mixture until it is as thick as desired, approximately 6 or more hours.
  5. Cook slowly to prevent scorching, stirring regularly throughout.
  6. Pour the hot sauce into clean, hot jars.
  7. Seal the jars and process in a water bath for 15 to 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a thicker chili sauce, allow the mixture to simmer longer, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar for a milder flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. This sauce also pairs beautifully with Sloppy Joes Barbecue for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili sauce as a condiment for grilled meats or burgers, or use it as a flavorful addition to soups and stews. It also makes a great gift when canned in decorative jars. For a delicious meal, pair it with Fran'S Pot Roast for a comforting family dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the sauce's texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Chili Sauce contains roughly 382 calories, with 8g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

382 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.8g 16% DV
Total Fat 13.8g 18% DV
Carbs 67.6g 25% DV
Fiber 14.8g 53% DV
Sugar 16.2g 32% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 285.3mg 12% DV
Potassium 1026.6mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 1.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 635.1mcg 71% DV
Vitamin C 72.8mg 81% DV
Calcium 159.5mg 12% DV
Iron 4mg 22% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to peel and core them before use. You'll need about 2 to 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes to equal 1 quart of peeled tomatoes. Just remember to let them drain as instructed to achieve the desired consistency.

Is this chili sauce spicy?

The heat level of this chili sauce can be adjusted based on your preference. The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which adds a mild kick. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount of cayenne or leave it out altogether for a sweeter sauce.

How long can I store the sealed jars?

If properly sealed and processed, the chili sauce can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to one year. However, it's best enjoyed within six months for optimal flavor. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use, especially if stored for longer periods.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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