Homemade Ketchup
Are you tired of store-bought ketchup filled with preservatives? Making homemade ketchup is not only simple but also allows you to customize flavors to your liking. With fresh tomatoes, spices, and a touch of sweetness, this recipe will elevate your meals and impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into creating your own delicious ketchup!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of homemade ketchup. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 tablespoon) contains approximately 15 calories, 0g fat, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g sugar. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by washing and chopping the ripe tomatoes.
2. In a large pot, combine tomatoes and chopped onions.
3. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes until tomatoes are soft.
4. Puree the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
5. Strain the pureed mixture through a fine sieve to remove skins and seeds.
6. Return the strained tomato mixture to the pot.
7. Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, garlic powder, allspice, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
8. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
9. Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool before storing in jars.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes for convenience. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter ketchup, use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Serving and Pairings
This homemade ketchup is perfect for serving with burgers, fries, and grilled meats. It also makes a great dip for vegetables or a flavorful addition to sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store your homemade ketchup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. You can freeze it for longer storage, just ensure to use a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip straining the mixture; it helps achieve a smooth texture.
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to burn the mixture while simmering.
- Adjust the sweetness by tasting as you go.
- Ensure all spices are fresh for maximum flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with spices to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Consider adding a touch of lemon juice for brightness.
- Store in small batches to maintain freshness.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes are best for homemade ketchup?
Ripe, juicy tomatoes are ideal for making ketchup. Varieties like Roma or San Marzano are preferred due to their lower water content and richer flavor.
Can I make ketchup without sugar?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or simply reduce the amount to suit your taste.
How long does homemade ketchup last?
When stored in the refrigerator, homemade ketchup can last for about three weeks. If frozen, it can last for several months.
Is homemade ketchup healthier than store-bought?
Yes, homemade ketchup typically contains fewer preservatives and additives, and you can control the sugar and salt levels to suit your dietary needs.
Can I can homemade ketchup for long-term storage?
Yes, if you follow proper canning procedures, you can preserve homemade ketchup for long-term storage.
Conclusion
Making homemade ketchup is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. You can customize flavors to fit your palate and enjoy a fresher, healthier condiment. Try this recipe today, and elevate your meals to a whole new level!
Homemade Ketchup
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup onion chopped
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Wash and chop the ripe tomatoes.
- In a large pot, combine tomatoes and chopped onions.
- Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes until tomatoes are soft.
- Puree the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender.
- Strain the pureed mixture through a fine sieve to remove skins and seeds.
- Return the strained tomato mixture to the pot.
- Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, garlic powder, allspice, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool before storing in jars.
