Grandma Babe'S Tomato Catsup
Grandma Babe's Tomato Catsup offers a rich, tangy flavor with sweet and spicy notes, perfect for enhancing burgers, fries, or as a condiment for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel tomatoes and onions.
- Remove seeds from peppers and slice.
- Cook vegetables for 30 minutes.
- Run cooked vegetables through a colander.
- Boil the tomato pulp until thick.
- Place allspice and other spices in a rag and add with remaining ingredients.
- Cook the mixture until thickened.
- Pour into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother catsup, consider using a food mill instead of a colander to strain the vegetables. If ripe tomatoes are not available, canned tomatoes can be a great substitute. Adjust the sugar to taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet version. Adding a touch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile, giving it a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tomato catsup is perfect for burgers, hot dogs, and fries. It also pairs beautifully with Grandma Glazier'S Bread And Butter Pickles for a delightful summer picnic. Try it as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables or drizzled over grilled meats. It can also be used in marinades or salad dressings for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover catsup in airtight jars in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a month. For longer storage, consider canning the catsup using proper canning techniques. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Babe'S Tomato Catsup contains roughly 765 calories, with 8g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2217mg per serving (96% 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 green tomatoes for this recipe?
While ripe tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and flavor, you can use green tomatoes for a tangier catsup. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste and texture, so adjust the sugar and spices accordingly to balance the flavors.
How can I thicken my catsup if it’s too runny?
If your catsup is too runny, continue to simmer it over low heat, allowing more moisture to evaporate. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste to help thicken it and enhance the tomato flavor. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning.
Is this catsup suitable for canning?
Yes, this catsup can be canned using proper canning methods. Ensure to sterilize jars and lids, and follow safe canning practices to prevent spoilage. Make sure to process them in a boiling water bath for the recommended time for your altitude.
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).