Description
This homemade ketchup recipe offers a deliciously rich and tangy condiment made from tomato paste, vinegar, and a blend of spices. It’s easy to make on the stovetop in about 25 minutes, with customizable sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for those seeking a more natural and preservative-free alternative to store-bought ketchup.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Spices
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for a spicier kick)
- 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, water, and salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Spices: Add the onion powder, garlic powder, ground allspice, optional ground cloves, and optional smoked paprika. Stir again thoroughly to incorporate all the spices evenly into the mixture.
- Simmer the Ketchup: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently until the ketchup thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the ketchup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter ketchup, or add extra vinegar for increased tanginess.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the ketchup to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the ketchup into a clean bottle or jar.
- Refrigerate: Store the homemade ketchup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks for best freshness and flavor retention.
Notes
- You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup to make the ketchup healthier and vegan-friendly.
- Optional spices like ground cloves and smoked paprika can be omitted or adjusted to your taste preferences.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent the ketchup from burning or sticking to the pan.
- This ketchup recipe yields approximately 1 cup of ketchup, suitable for about 1 serving as a condiment, but you can easily double or triple the recipe.
- Store in a clean, airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
