Transform your meals with a delicious twist on a classic condiment by making your own homemade ketchup. This recipe is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and spicy and is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Not only is it super easy to make, but using fresh ingredients also ensures you’re packing your meals with the best flavors while knowing every ingredient in your ketchup.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Growing up, my grandmother always had a knack for reinventing everyday essentials, turning them into something extraordinary. Her homemade ketchup is a family legacy, and the aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices instantly transports me back to her warm kitchen. Every Thanksgiving, we would gather around her table, and this ketchup was always a surprising, savory-sweet non-negotiable for our turkey sandwiches the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade ketchup is not just any ketchup; it’s a healthier, tastier version of store-bought options. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, meaning no preservatives or artificial flavors are involved. The best part? It’s easily customizable to suit your taste preferences, whether you want it spicier or a bit sweeter. Plus, you’ll love knowing it’s fresh and made with love, offering an authentic taste that’s hard to come by in conventional options.
Ingredients Notes
To create this vibrant condiment, you’ll need ripe tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, a medley of spices, and salt. Ripe, juicy tomatoes are key for the best flavor, so try visiting a local farmers’ market or using homegrown ones if possible. If you’re out of white vinegar, Apple Cider vinegar makes a great substitute, adding a slightly different but pleasant tang. Adjust the sugar content to your liking for a healthier option.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by washing and coarsely chopping your tomatoes. You don’t need to worry about peeling them, as the skin will break down during cooking.
Step 2
Cook the tomatoes in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. They should start to release their juices after about 10 minutes.
Step 3
Add the vinegar, sugar, and spices into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4
Let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5
Once thickened, remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Let the ketchup cool before transferring it into sterilized jars for storage.
Storage Options
Your homemade ketchup will last up to three weeks in the refrigerator if stored in a sealed container. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and defrost portions as needed. To reheat, simply leave it at room temperature or gently heat on a stove.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce while the ketchup is simmering. Prefer a smokier flavor? A bit of smoked paprika will do the trick. If you’re looking to make it sugar-free, try honey or an artificial sweetener that can withstand heat.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade ketchup is incredibly versatile. Smother it on burgers, dunk your fries in it, or use it as a base for a tangy barbecue sauce. It also makes a fantastic addition to homemade sauces and marinades or a flavorful dip at your next party or family gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the ketchup is ready? The ketchup is ready when it has thickened to a jam-like consistency. You can test this by placing a small drop on a plate; if it holds its shape without spreading, it’s perfect.
Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, you can substitute ripe tomatoes with canned crushed tomatoes. Just be sure they are high quality, and drain them slightly to avoid excess water in your ketchup.
What if my ketchup is too runny? If your ketchup is too runny, continue to simmer it uncovered so that more liquid can evaporate. Alternatively, a little tomato paste can help thicken it quickly without altering the taste.
Frequently Asked Questions

homemade ketchup benefits
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups tomato paste organic, if possible
- 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 cup brown sugar or substitute with honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
- Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Let it cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.