Tomato Catsup Or Chili Sauce
A tangy, sweet, and spicy homemade tomato ketchup with rich flavors, perfect for adding a bold touch to meats, fries, or sandwiches, especially suited for condiment lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel tomatoes and onions.
- Remove seeds and stems from peppers and chop or grind them finely.
- Cook the tomatoes, onions, and peppers slowly until soft, about 30 minutes.
- Add pepper, salt, vinegar, sugar, and nutmeg to the mixture.
- Boil the mixture for 2 hours or until it thickens.
- Dissolve cornstarch in a portion of vinegar and add to the mixture.
- Tie mixed spices loosely in cheesecloth, removing all but one red pepper.
- Boil the mixture for an additional 30 minutes.
- Bottle or jar the sauce and seal.
- For catsup, force the mixture through a fine sieve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother catsup, ensure to strain the mixture thoroughly through a fine sieve. If you're short on time, consider using canned tomatoes as a substitute, though fresh tomatoes provide a richer flavor. Adjust the sugar to taste depending on your preference for sweetness. The mixed spices can be tailored to include your favorite herbs for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tomato catsup as a delightful condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or fries. It pairs beautifully with Warm Potato Salad(Light And Easy) for a perfect picnic spread. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables or as a base for barbecue dishes to elevate your meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store the bottled sauce in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within two weeks for the best flavor. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This sauce is great for enhancing dishes or as a condiment.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Catsup Or Chili Sauce contains roughly 850 calories, with 8g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1842mg per serving (80% 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 other types of peppers in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with various peppers. Bell peppers add sweetness, while jalapeños or serranos will add heat. Adjust the quantity according to your heat preference, and remember to remove seeds for milder flavors.
How long can I store this catsup?
When sealed properly, this catsup can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it's best to consume it within two weeks when stored in the refrigerator to ensure optimal flavor and freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes, this catsup can be canned. Make sure to follow proper canning techniques to ensure safety, including sterilizing jars and sealing them correctly. This will help preserve the catsup for longer storage.
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).