Description
This homemade ketchup recipe offers a simple, healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Made with tomato paste and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, it combines tangy apple cider vinegar with warm spices for a rich, balanced flavor. Perfect as a condiment for burgers, fries, or sandwiches, this easy stovetop recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine tomato paste, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, allspice, ground cloves, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth to ensure all spices and liquids are well incorporated.
- Simmer mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce and thicken: Lower the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the ketchup to thicken and the flavors to fully meld together.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the ketchup and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more vinegar for extra tang, sugar or honey for sweetness, or spices to your preference for deeper flavor.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and let the ketchup cool completely. Transfer it to a clean jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
- For a smoother ketchup, blend the mixture after cooking to your desired consistency.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- To make it refined sugar-free, use only honey or maple syrup as sweeteners.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity depending on your preferred heat level.
