Ketchup is a beloved condiment that adds a burst of tangy, sweet flavor to everything from fries and burgers to meatloaf and sandwiches. While store-bought ketchup is convenient, making your own ketchup from tomato paste is surprisingly easy, fun, and lets you control exactly what goes into it. Plus, homemade ketchup tastes fresher and can be customized to your liking!
In this article, I’ll walk you through a straightforward recipe and helpful tips to make delicious ketchup from tomato paste right in your kitchen.
Why Make Ketchup from Tomato Paste?
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes, packed with rich flavor and thickness. Using it as a base for ketchup means you don’t have to cook down fresh tomatoes for hours, saving time and effort. It also gives you a consistent tomato flavor that’s perfect for ketchup.
Making ketchup at home means no preservatives, artificial flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup. You can adjust sweetness, tanginess, and spices to suit your taste, making it healthier and more delicious than many store-bought versions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients to transform tomato paste into classic ketchup:
– Tomato paste (about 1 cup or a 6 oz can)
– Water (1/4 to 1/2 cup to adjust consistency)
– Vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar, about 1/4 cup for tanginess)
– Sweetener (brown sugar, maple syrup, or corn syrup, around 1-2 tablespoons)
– Salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
– Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon)
– Garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon)
– Optional spices: allspice, clove, cayenne pepper, or mustard powder for depth and a little kick
– Worcestershire sauce (optional, for umami richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Ketchup from Tomato Paste
- Combine the base ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the tomato paste with water and vinegar. Stir until smooth.
- Add sweetener and seasonings:
Stir in your choice of sweetener (brown sugar or maple syrup works great), salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and any optional spices you like.
- Simmer gently:
Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and the ketchup thicken.
- Adjust consistency and flavor:
If the ketchup is too thick, add a little more water. Taste and add more salt, vinegar, or sweetener as needed to balance the tangy and sweet flavors.
- Cool and store:
Remove from heat and let the ketchup cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a clean jar or bottle and refrigerate. It will keep for up to two weeks.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Ketchup
– Sweetener swaps: If you don’t have corn syrup, honey or maple syrup are excellent alternatives that add natural sweetness without overpowering flavor.
– Spice it up: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
– Flavor boosters: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika can add complexity.
– Thickness check: To test thickness, drop a spoonful on a plate and tilt it. If it runs too fast, simmer longer.
– Make it your own: Adjust vinegar for more tang or sugar for sweeter ketchup depending on your preference.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Ketchup
– It’s easy and quick — ready in under 30 minutes.
– You control the ingredients — no preservatives or artificial flavors.
– It’s customizable — tweak sweetness, spice, and tang to your liking.
– Perfect for all your favorite dishes — fries, burgers, sandwiches, and more.
Making ketchup from tomato paste is a simple way to elevate your meals with a fresh, flavorful condiment made your way. Give it a try, and you might never go back to store-bought!
Enjoy your homemade ketchup on everything you love!