Best Easy Homemade Ketchup Recipe Fresh Tomatoes
Ketchup is a popular condiment enjoyed by people of all ages. While store-bought ketchup is readily available, making your own homemade ketchup using fresh tomatoes is a rewarding and delicious experience. By doing so, you can control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and customize the flavors to suit your taste buds. In this article, we will share the best easy homemade ketchup recipe using fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 kg ripe tomatoes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the tomatoes and removing the stems. Cut them into quarters and remove the seeds if desired. By removing the seeds, you can achieve a smoother consistency.
2. In a large pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and quartered tomatoes. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the tomato mixture until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter.
4. Pour the blended tomato mixture back into the pot and add the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, mustard powder, and ground cloves. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Place the pot back on the stove over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the ketchup thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Taste the ketchup and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter ketchup or more vinegar for a tangier flavor.
7. Once the ketchup has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
8. Once cooled, transfer the homemade ketchup to sterilized jars or containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Now that you have prepared your own homemade ketchup, you can enjoy it with your favorite dishes, from burgers and fries to scrambled eggs and sandwiches. The freshness and flavors of the tomatoes will enhance any meal and leave you wanting more.
Q&A:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute. However, fresh tomatoes will provide a more vibrant and authentic flavor.
2. Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use white sugar if you prefer, but brown sugar adds a richer flavor to the ketchup.
3. How can I make the ketchup spicier?
To add some heat to your ketchup, you can include a dash of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce.
4. Can I freeze the homemade ketchup?
Yes, you can freeze the ketchup in airtight containers for up to three months. Ensure you leave some headspace in the container for expansion.
5. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar quantity according to your preference. However, keep in mind that sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
6. How long does it take for the ketchup to thicken?
The ketchup may take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to thicken, depending on the desired consistency and the water content of the tomatoes.
7. Can I add additional spices or herbs to the ketchup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices and herbs such as basil, oregano, or even a pinch of cinnamon to give the ketchup a unique twist.