Description
This homemade tomato ketchup is a simple, flavorful condiment made from fresh or canned tomatoes combined with vinegar, sugar, and a blend of spices. Simmered to perfection and optionally blended for a smooth texture, it offers a fresh and natural alternative to store-bought ketchups, perfect for dipping, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Ketchup Ingredients
- 2 cups tomatoes, blended (fresh or canned)
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to a saucepan and stir well to combine, ensuring the sugar and spices are evenly distributed throughout the tomato mixture.
- Heat to Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step activates the flavors and begins the cooking process for thickening.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and continue simmering for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the ketchup to reduce to a thicker consistency.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional): Once the ketchup has cooled, blend it using a blender or immersion blender if you prefer an ultra-smooth texture without any chunks.
- Store: Transfer the ketchup to an airtight jar and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks, ready to enhance your favorite dishes.
Notes
- You can use either fresh ripe tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes depending on the season and availability.
- Adjust the sugar and vinegar to taste for a sweeter or tangier ketchup.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Blending is optional but recommended for a smooth consistency similar to commercial ketchup.
- Store in the fridge in a sealed container and consume within two weeks for best flavor and safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade ketchup, tomato ketchup recipe, homemade condiment, easy ketchup recipe, stovetop ketchup
