Grandma Charlie'S Tomato Catsup
A flavorful homemade tomato ketchup with rich tomato flavor and balanced spices, perfect for family meals, sandwiches, and as a condiment for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the tomatoes through a colander.
- Heat the tomato pulp and onion until boiling.
- Add the dry ingredients, mixed with 1/2 cup vinegar.
- Boil the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Seal the hot ketchup in jars.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your tomatoes are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness. You can substitute some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste. If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a little more cornstarch. Additionally, you can experiment with spices like smoked paprika for added depth. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tomato catsup is perfect for burgers, hot dogs, or as a dipping sauce for fries. It pairs beautifully with Red Devil Franks for a classic summer cookout. You can also use it as a base for barbecue sauce or mix it into meatloaf for added moisture and flavor. Try serving it alongside grilled vegetables for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of ketchup in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the ketchup and use it within a month. To reheat, simply warm the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Charlie'S Tomato Catsup contains roughly 561 calories, with 6g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1983mg per serving (86% 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 store-bought tomato pulp instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use store-bought tomato pulp to save time. However, using fresh, very ripe tomatoes yields a superior flavor and texture. If using canned pulp, check for added ingredients, as they may alter the taste of your ketchup.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the ketchup?
To adjust the sweetness, simply decrease or increase the amount of granulated sugar. Taste the mixture before sealing it in jars; if it’s too tart, add a bit more sugar until it reaches your desired sweetness. Remember that the sweetness can also vary depending on your tomato variety.
Is it possible to make this ketchup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any additional spices or ingredients you might want to add also comply with vegan standards. You can explore more vegan recipes to accompany your homemade ketchup.
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).