Tomato Ketchup
Homemade tomato ketchup offers a rich, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness and spices, perfect for enhancing sandwiches, fries, or grilled dishes. Its vibrant taste and natural ingredients make it an ideal condiment for those seeking a healthier, preservative-free alternative to store-bought versions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash vegetables; slice and remove seeds from peppers.
- Cook tomatoes, onions, celery, garlic (if using), and red peppers until vegetables are tender.
- Press the cooked mixture through a fine sieve or puree in a blender until smooth.
- Bring the pureed mixture to a boil and cook rapidly for about 30 minutes to evaporate some of the liquid.
- Add vinegar, sugar, paprika, red pepper, cinnamon, mustard, cloves, and salt to the mixture.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thickened to desired consistency.
- Fill hot, sterilized jars with the ketchup and seal immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure you blend the tomato mixture thoroughly after cooking. You can substitute white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you want a spicier ketchup, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using hotter peppers. Adjust spices according to your taste, and don't hesitate to experiment with adding herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tomato ketchup is perfect for classic American recipes like burgers, hot dogs, and fries. It also pairs beautifully with 12-Hour Cole Slaw for a delightful summer picnic spread. Try it as a dipping sauce for fried appetizers or as a condiment on sandwiches and wraps to elevate your meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ketchup in sterilized glass jars in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three months. When reheating, pour the desired amount into a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the container to avoid splattering.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Ketchup contains roughly 186 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% 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 ones?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to drain excess liquid to achieve the desired consistency. Canned tomatoes will also save you time in preparation, making this recipe quicker to execute.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the ketchup?
To adjust the sweetness, start with the recommended sugar and taste as you cook. You can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter ketchup or reduce it if you like it tangier. Using alternative sweeteners like honey or agave syrup can also change the flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes, this ketchup recipe is suitable for canning. Ensure to follow proper canning procedures, including using sterilized jars and processing them in a water bath to ensure safety. This will allow you to store the ketchup for longer periods without refrigeration.
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).