Cold Ketchup
A vibrant, tangy homemade ketchup made from fresh tomatoes and peppers, perfect for adding a bold flavor to fries, burgers, and more. Suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind together the peeled tomatoes, green peppers, red peppers, onions, and celery.
- Add 1/2 cup of salt to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a bag and drain until no liquid comes out.
- Add vinegar and sugar to the drained mixture and warm together until the sugar dissolves.
- Add celery seed and mustard seed.
- Can the mixture. No cooking or processing needed. Will keep on shelf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider using a high-speed blender instead of grinding by hand. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 6 cups or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Ensure you use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also add spices such as cinnamon or cloves for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Cold Ketchup makes a fantastic condiment for burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Brown'S Cole Slaw Dressing for a delightful summer meal. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for fries or as a base for salad dressings. Serve it chilled for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Once canned, store the Cold Ketchup in a cool, dark place. It can last for up to a year if sealed properly. After opening, keep it refrigerated and consume within a month. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Ketchup contains roughly 1117 calories, with 19g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (743% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2960mg per serving (129% of the Daily Value).
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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
While fresh tomatoes yield the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as canned tomatoes can sometimes be more acidic.
How long does the ketchup need to be drained?
Drain the mixture until no liquid comes out, which typically takes about 1-2 hours. You can speed up the process by placing a weight on top of the mixture or using a fine mesh strainer. The goal is to achieve a thick consistency for a richer sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even herbs like basil for added flavor. Just keep in mind that adding too many moist ingredients may require longer draining to maintain the desired consistency.
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).