Tomato Ketchup Recipe Tips

Homemade Tomato Ketchup Recipe

Tomato ketchup is a staple condiment in many households, adding a tangy sweet flavor to snacks, fries, burgers and more. Making ketchup at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoid preservatives and customize the taste to your preference. Here's a simple yet flavorful recipe for homemade tomato ketchup.

Ingredients:

. 2 kg ripe tomatoes (preferably roma or plum)

. 1 large onion, chopped

. 4-5 garlic cloves, minced

. 1/2 cup white vinegar

. 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust for sweetness)

. 1 tbsp salt

. 1/2 tbsp black pepper powder

. 1/2 tbsp paprika or red chili powder

. 1/2 tbsp cinnamom powder

. 1/2 tbsp mustard powder

. 2 tbsp tomato paste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

. Wash the tomatoes and cut them into quarters

. In a large pot, add the tomatoes, chopped onion and garlic

2. Cook the Base

. Heat the pot over medium heat and cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices (about 20-30 minutes)

. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

3. Blend the Mixture

. Once the tomatoes have softened, let the mixture cool slightly

. Blend it into a smooth pure using a blender or immersion blender

. Strain the pure through a fine sieve to remove seeds and skins

4. Simmer the Ketchup

. Pour the strained tomato pure back into the pot

. Add vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, cinnamon, mustard powder and tomato paste

. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally

5. Adjust Flavor & Consistency

. Taste the ketchup and adjust sweetness, acidity or seasoning as needed

. If too thick, add a little water, if too thin, let it simmer longer

6. Store the Ketchup

. Once thick and flavorful, let the ketchup cool

. Transfer it to sterilized glass jars or bottles

. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer shelf life

Tips for Perfect Ketchup:

. Use rip, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor

. Adjust sweetness and vinegar based on personal preference

. For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika

. To make it last longer, add a natural preservative like citric acid or lemon juice

Homemade tomato ketchup is fresher and tastier than store bought versions. Enjoy it with fries, sandwiches or any dish that needs a delicious tomato kick.

Would you like any modification, such as a sugar free or spicy version!