Ketchup is a sauce that is widely used around the world. It is a popular condiment that is often used as a dip for fries, burgers, and sandwiches. The store-bought ketchup may contain added preservatives and high fructose corn syrup which is not good for your health. Making your own ketchup at home is a healthier option and it is surprisingly easy to make. In this article, we will take a look at how to make homemade ketchup.
Ingredients
To make homemade ketchup, you will need the following ingredients: - 6 ounces tomato paste - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar - 1/4 cup water - 1/4 cup honey - 1 tsp onion powder - 1 tsp garlic powder - 1/4 tsp allspice - 1/4 tsp cinnamon - 1/4 tsp cloves - Salt to taste
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is the main ingredient in ketchup. You can use canned or homemade tomato paste. If you are using canned tomato paste, make sure to read the label and choose a brand that doesn't have added sugars or preservatives.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar gives the ketchup a tangy flavor. You can use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar, but apple cider vinegar is a healthier option as it contains beneficial enzymes and probiotics.
Honey
Honey is used to sweeten the ketchup. You can use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
Spices
The spices used in this recipe give the ketchup a unique flavor. You can adjust the amount of spices according to your taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, water, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, allspice, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 2: Cook the mixture
Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is thick and bubbly.
Step 3: Blend the mixture
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until it is smooth.
Step 4: Store the ketchup
Transfer the ketchup to a clean jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. Homemade ketchup can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
Homemade ketchup is a healthier option than store-bought ketchup as it doesn't contain added sugars or preservatives. One tablespoon of homemade ketchup contains approximately: - 15 calories - 0g fat - 4g carbohydrates - 0g protein - 70mg sodium
Conclusion
Making your own ketchup at home is easy, healthy, and affordable. You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the ketchup according to your taste. Homemade ketchup can be used as a dip, a marinade, or a sauce. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out!