Homemade Tomato Ketchup
A rich, tangy homemade tomato ketchup with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, ideal for enhancing fries, burgers, and grilled meats for any dish enthusiast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 6-quart, stainless-steel or enameled pot, combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Simmer 30 to 40 minutes or until mixture is thick enough to hold its shape in a spoon.
- Stir often to prevent scorching.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother ketchup, blend the mixture after cooking. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding more brown sugar or using honey as a substitute. To enhance flavor, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili. Always use ripe tomatoes for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade tomato ketchup as a classic condiment for burgers, fries, and hot dogs. It also pairs beautifully with Four-Grain Cornbread for a unique twist. Consider using it as a base for barbecue sauces or glazes for meats. Enjoy with grilled vegetables for a fresh side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ketchup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the ketchup in sterilized jars. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Tomato Ketchup contains roughly 474 calories, with 4g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but choose whole, peeled tomatoes for the best flavor. Drain excess liquid and adjust sugar and vinegar to taste, as canned varieties can be sweeter or more acidic.
How can I adjust the thickness of the ketchup?
To thicken your ketchup more, simmer it longer until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or vinegar, stirring until well combined.
Is it possible to make this ketchup spicy?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of red hot chili or add other spices such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to enhance the heat. Taste as you go to achieve the level of spiciness you prefer.
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).