Homemade Ketchup

When it comes to condiments, ketchup is the undisputed main squeeze. Whether you love it, avoid it, or don’t vibe with the taste or texture, you can’t deny that ketchup is one of the most universally consumed foods across the globe.

Unfortunately, the evolution of ketchup has also come with loads of additives and preservatives to extend its shelf life. That’s why learning how to make Homemade Ketchup using tomato paste and a handful of pantry staples is the ultimate guilt-free way to enjoy this classic condiment. You won’t believe how incredibly simple it is to make something you’ve never considered making at home. So, ketchup with the times and try this homemade version!

What stands out

Think of this Homemade Ketchup as store-bought ketchup’s elegant and sophisticated cousin. Rich, thick and smooth, this homemade ketchup recipe is not only foolproof and low-effort (our fav combo) but also fully customizable. You can tweak it with your favorite spices, add a bit of heat, adjust the acidity and control the thickness. We mean, anytime we can add our own personal touch to something, we feel like we're winning. Trust us, once you learn how to make Homemade Ketchup, you’ll kiss the supermarket version bye-bye.

How to Make Homemade Ketchup

In a saucepan on the stove combine tomato paste, water, vinegar, honey, onion powder, garlic powder and salt. Mix all of the ingredients until well combined, and then bring the mixture to a simmer over low/medium heat.

When the mixture starts simmering reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and cook for 20 minutes.

Once the ketchup has thickened remove it from the stove and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a container and refrigerate for at least a few hours before using it.

Store the homemade ketchup in the fridge in an airtight container for at least 4 weeks.

Kitchen tip

You can use any sweetener you prefer, such as brown sugar, regular sugar, honey, or even maple syrup. The level of sweetness or tartness in your ketchup will be entirely up to you.

Homemade Ketchup Variations and Substitutions

1. Feel free to use any sweetener you prefer, such as brown sugar, regular sugar, honey, or even maple syrup. The level of sweetness or tartness in your ketchup will be entirely up to you.
2. Add your favorite spices and herbs to this Homemade Ketchup recipe to make it your own. Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, mustard powder, basil, oregano or thyme are just a few possible options.
3. Mix this Homemade Ketchup with some Sriracha for a spicy ketchup situation.
4. This homemade ketchup recipe can be made with tomato sauce instead of tomato paste. However, the taste, texture, and cooking time will differ as the tomato sauce is much more watery and will need more time to thicken.
5. Add Worcestershire Sauce for some added flavor and depth.

Serve it with

• Let’s get the obvious first choice out of the way – FRIES. SERVE THIS WITH FRIES!
• On a juicy, burger or a good old hot dog. For a complete homemade meal, check out our Homemade Burger recipe or Turkey Burger recipe.
• Alongside some Crispy Chicken Fingers.
• If you’re a real ketchup fanatic, you’ll know that ketchup and eggs go together real bad. Serve this Homemade Ketchup with your favorite breakfast egg variation, like our Cheesy Eggs or Feta and Potato Omelet.

Questions

How long does homemade ketchup last?

Homemade ketchup typically lasts about 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 6 months.

what brand of tomato paste should i use?

The rule of thumb is that the better the quality of the ingredients, the better the outcome. If possible, use high-quality Italian tomato paste for this recipe.

can i adjust the sweetness of the ketchup?

Absolutely. You can customize the sweetness by adding more or less honey or other sweeteners according to your taste.

what if our ketchup is too thick?

If your ketchup is too thick, thin it out with some water or vinegar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can we use a sugar substitute?

You can use any sweetener you prefer, such as brown sugar, regular sugar, honey, or even maple syrup. The level of sweetness or tartness in your ketchup will be entirely up to you.

Ingredients

Makes 20 teaspoons

• 6 oz tomato paste, Italian
• ½ cup water
• ⅓ cup vinegar, apple cider is fine too
• 4 tablespoons honey, to taste
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 pinch salt

Method

1. In a saucepan on the stove, mix together all the ingredients until well combined. Bring mixture to a simmer over low/medium heat.
2. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, semi-cover it and continue to cook for 20 minutes.
3. Once thick, take it off the stove and cool for 10 minutes before pouring into a container of choice. Now, place it in the fridge to chill for at least a few hours before using.
4. Store ketchup in the fridge in an airtight container for at least 4 weeks.