The Best Homemade Ketchup

Name: The Best Homemade Ketchup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 105 min
Yield: 8 cups
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 kg ripe tomatoes (chopped); 1 cup white sugar; 1 cup white vinegar; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp salt; 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp ground cloves; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

105 min 8 cups Medium

All Recipes

The Best Homemade Ketchup

Discover the rich and tangy flavours of homemade ketchup with this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for enhancing your favourite dishes.

Prep

15 min

Cook

90 min

Total

105 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Ketchup is a staple condiment in many households, known for its sweet and tangy flavour that perfectly complements a wide range of dishes. While store-bought options are convenient, making your own ketchup at home allows you to tailor the flavour to your exact preferences. This homemade ketchup recipe captures the essence of fresh tomatoes, balanced with a harmonious blend of spices. It's a delightful way to enjoy ketchup without any preservatives or artificial flavours, offering a wholesome and delicious alternative to commercial varieties.

Ingredients

Servings

Main Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes

Place the chopped tomatoes in a large pot. Bring them to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro tip: Use a non-reactive pot to prevent off-flavours.

Blend the Mixture

Use an immersion blender to puree the tomatoes until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth.

Pro tip: Let the mixture cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the pureed tomatoes to the pot. Add sugar, vinegar, onion, garlic, salt, allspice, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Pro tip: Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or sugar if needed.

Simmer the Sauce

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the ketchup reaches your desired consistency.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Strain for Smoothness

For a smooth texture, strain the ketchup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.

Pro tip: This step is optional if you prefer a chunkier ketchup.

Store the Ketchup

Transfer the finished ketchup into sterilized jars. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

Pro tip: For longer storage, use a water bath canning method to preserve the ketchup.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavour and sweetness.</li><li>Avoid aluminium pots, as they can react with the acidity of tomatoes.</li><li>Simmer slowly to develop deeper flavours and thicker consistency.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Homemade ketchup is a versatile condiment that can be used in numerous ways. Pair it with burgers, fries, or even use it as a base for BBQ sauces. Store the ketchup in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider canning it using proper canning techniques to ensure safety and quality.