The Best Homemade Ketchup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making your own ketchup at home is surprisingly simple and lets you enjoy a fresh, tangy flavor you can’t find in store-bought versions. You’ll love how customizable it is, giving you full control over the taste and ingredients. Plus, it’s free from preservatives and additives, making it a healthier choice for your family. You might even find yourself reaching for this homemade version more often than the bottle sitting in your fridge!
Recipe
Ketchup is a versatile condiment that can be made at home with simple ingredients. This homemade version offers a fresher, tangier taste compared to store-bought varieties, free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- ⅛ tsp allspice
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine tomato paste, water, vinegar, brown sugar, and honey.
- Whisk in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cloves, and allspice until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Notes:
- For a smoother texture, blend the ketchup before storing.
- Adjust sweetness or tanginess by varying sugar or vinegar amounts.
Equipment:
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Airtight storage container
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 1 cup
Nutrition
This homemade ketchup recipe is a healthier alternative to store-bought versions, packed with natural ingredients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 30 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade ketchup with classic burgers, as the tangy flavor complements the juicy meat perfectly. It’s also amazing alongside grilled cheese sandwiches, adding a bright kick to the gooey, cheesy goodness. You can’t go wrong with these combos—they’re simple, comforting, and totally delicious.
Classic Burger Pairings
When I’m building the ultimate burger, I always think about what’s going on the side—because let’s be honest, the burger’s great, but the right pairings can make the meal unforgettable. Crispy fries are a no-brainer, especially when dunked in that homemade ketchup. Onion rings add a crunchy, savory twist, while a simple side salad cuts through the richness. For something heartier, try loaded potato skins or coleslaw with a tangy kick. And don’t forget pickles—their sharp bite balances everything. Whatever you choose, keep it balanced, so each bite of your burger still shines.
Grilled Cheese Combos
Though grilled cheese is already a comfort food favorite, pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. I love dipping mine in homemade ketchup—its tangy sweetness cuts through the gooey cheese perfectly. A crisp dill pickle adds crunch and brightness, while tomato soup is a classic for good reason. For something heartier, try crispy bacon or caramelized onions tucked inside the sandwich. A simple side salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. And don’t forget fries—they’re a match made in heaven. Experiment with these combos, and you’ll never settle for plain grilled cheese again.
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