Mom'S Ketchup
A homemade, sweet and tangy ketchup with rich tomato flavor, perfect for pairing with fries, burgers, or as a dip for snacks. Customizable and preservable.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring often.
- Remove the pan from heat and cover until cool.
- Chill in a covered container before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker ketchup, simmer it a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a sweeter ketchup, consider adding more sugar or using brown sugar for a deeper flavor. You can also substitute the light corn syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your palate.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade ketchup pairs beautifully with burgers, fries, and hot dogs. It's also a great dip for snacks like the Teddy Snack Mix or served alongside grilled meats. For a fun twist, try using it as a base for sauces or marinades, enhancing your favorite American recipes. Serve it chilled for the best flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ketchup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation. If you want to freeze it, pour the ketchup into ice cube trays, freeze, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Ketchup contains roughly 268 calories, with 5g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 tomato paste?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to cook them down to remove excess moisture. Start with about 2 cups of diced tomatoes and simmer until thickened before blending into a paste. This will give you a fresher taste, but the texture may differ slightly from using tomato paste.
Is this ketchup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this ketchup is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It's a great alternative to store-bought ketchup, which may contain preservatives or additives. Feel free to use it in your vegan recipes or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat to your ketchup, consider mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce during the cooking process. Alternatively, you can add finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of chipotle sauce for a smoky flavor. Adjust according to your spice preference.
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).