Old Time Ketchup
Old Time Ketchup offers a rich, spiced flavor with a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness, making it ideal for classic burgers, fries, or as a dipping sauce. Its robust profile suits those craving a nostalgic condiment with a homemade touch, perfect for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the spices in a spice bag.
- Cook the tomato juice with the spice bag until the mixture thickens.
- Add sugar to taste during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Optionally, add 2 or 3 tablespoons of cornstarch for more thickness and cook until well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before juicing them. If cloves are too strong for your taste, use half the amount or substitute with ground cinnamon. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference; brown sugar can add a richer flavor. For a gluten-free version, ensure the mustard is gluten-free. This ketchup is perfect for those looking to explore traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Time Ketchup can elevate your burgers, hot dogs, or fries, providing a unique twist to classic meals. It also pairs beautifully with dishes like Shortcake Dessert for a contrasting flavor. Try using it as a dipping sauce for appetizers or as a glaze for grilled meats to enhance their taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ketchup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it in small portions for later use; just thaw in the fridge before use. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Time Ketchup contains roughly 469 calories, with 3g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1911mg per serving (83% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! To do this, cook and puree them first, then strain to remove seeds and skins. This will give you a fresher flavor, but it may require additional cooking time to reach the desired thickness.
How do I make this ketchup spicier?
To increase the spiciness, add more red pepper or include a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also experiment with other hot spices like chipotle for a smoky heat. Adjust gradually to suit your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan since it doesn’t contain any animal products. Ensure that the mustard used is vegan-friendly, and you can substitute sugar with agave syrup or another vegan sweetener if desired.
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).