Tomato ketchup

Table of contents

Tomato Ketchup

Tomato ketchup is a classic condiment that adds a tangy and sweet flavor to a variety of dishes. This homemade version is free from preservatives and offers a richer taste than store-bought options. Perfect for dipping fries, spreading on burgers, or adding to your favorite recipes, this ketchup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Serving Size and Yield

Makes approximately 2 cups of ketchup.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

Prepare the tomatoes by washing and chopping them into small pieces.
Combine the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Cook the mixture for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft and the onions are translucent.
Blend the mixture using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth.
Return the pureed mixture to the saucepan and add the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, allspice, cloves, and cayenne pepper.
Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Cool the ketchup slightly before transferring it to a clean jar or bottle.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Additional Notes

For a smoother texture, strain the ketchup through a fine-mesh sieve before bottling. You can adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or vinegar to taste. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.