Looking for a way to elevate your meals? This homemade ketchup recipe is the perfect solution! With fresh tomatoes and spices, you can create a rich, tangy sauce that beats store-bought versions any day. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste, ensuring you enjoy a condiment that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process for this delightful addition to your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of homemade ketchup. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 tablespoon), this homemade ketchup contains approximately:
– Calories: 20
– Total Fat: 0g
– Sodium: 110mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 5g
– Sugars: 4g
This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by washing and chopping the tomatoes and onions.
2. Place chopped tomatoes and onions in a large pot.
3. Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and all spices to the pot.
4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
6. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes.
7. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
8. After 45 minutes, blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender.
9. Return the blended ketchup to the pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
10. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool before transferring to jars.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes for a quicker option. If you prefer a sweeter ketchup, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or use honey as an alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This homemade ketchup pairs beautifully with fries, burgers, and grilled meats. It can also be used as a base for sauces or as a topping for sandwiches, adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store homemade ketchup in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. It can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe tomatoes can lead to bland ketchup.
- Not simmering long enough may result in a watery texture.
- Overcooking can make the ketchup too thick.
- Forgetting to blend can leave chunks in your ketchup.
- Not adjusting spices to taste can lead to an unbalanced flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with spices to create your unique twist.
- Always taste as you go to adjust sweetness and acidity.
- Label jars with the date for easy tracking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can use white vinegar or red wine vinegar as alternatives, though they will alter the flavor slightly.
How long does homemade ketchup last?
Homemade ketchup can last in the fridge for about three weeks, or it can be frozen for several months.
Can I make ketchup without sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce or omit sugar, or use alternatives like agave syrup or stevia for sweetness.
Is this ketchup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this homemade ketchup recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I can this ketchup for longer storage?
Yes, you can process the ketchup in a water bath canner for long-term storage, following safe canning practices.
Conclusion
Making homemade ketchup is not only simple but also rewarding. With fresh ingredients and the ability to customize flavors, you can create a condiment that enhances any meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich taste of homemade goodness!
Homemade Ketchup
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Wash and chop the tomatoes and onions.
- Place chopped tomatoes and onions in a large pot.
- Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and all spices to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Return the blended ketchup to the pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool before transferring to jars.
Nutrition
