Homemade Ketchup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups tomatoes (chopped, fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground mustard
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel the skins off, and chop the tomatoes.
- Cook the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the tomatoes, chopped onion, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes and onions are very soft.
- Blend: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Strain: Pass the pureed mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any seeds and skins. Press the mixture with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Add Seasonings: Return the strained mixture to the saucepan. Add the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, salt, ground mustard, allspice, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil again, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the ketchup is thickened to your desired consistency. The longer it cooks, the thicker it will become.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, sugar, or vinegar to taste.
- Cool and Store: Let the ketchup cool completely, then transfer to a clean, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Enjoy your homemade ketchup with fries, burgers, or any of your favorite dishes!
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