Ketchup Recipe Tomato Paste

I’m so excited to share my absolute favorite way to make homemade ketchup, a simple yet incredibly flavorful `ketchup recipe tomato paste` that will transform your kitchen! Imagine a vibrant, zesty homemade condiment, crafted by you in minutes, filling your home with a wonderful aroma as it simmers. As busy parents, we want the best for our families, and that includes healthier condiments that still taste amazing for our `family-friendly` meals. This simple recipe transforms humble tomato paste into a flavorful, preservative-free condiment your entire family will adore. After years of experimenting, this is our go-to, tried-and-true recipe that always gets rave reviews.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this easy, `healthy` homemade staple. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich flavor profile.

The Base: Tomato Paste

• 300 g (10.6 oz) Tomato Paste: The heart of this `ketchup recipe tomato paste`, providing deep tomato richness and a thick body. Opt for high-quality, double-concentrated paste for the best flavor.

Tang & Sweetness: Vinegar & Sweetener

• 240 ml (1 cup) Filtered Water: Thins the concentrate to a perfect consistency.
• 120 ml (½ cup) White Vinegar: Delivers that essential tangy kick and acts as a natural preservative. (You can swap for apple cider vinegar if you prefer its milder fruitiness!)
• 60 ml (¼ cup) Pure Maple Syrup: Balances the acidity and adds a touch of natural sweetness. (Feel free to use brown sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a `low-carb` version.)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds a silky texture.

Flavor Boosters: Spices & Aromatics

• 1 tablespoon Onion Powder: Adds foundational savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Aromatic, essential for classic ketchup flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika: Infuses a unique smoky warmth, making this `ketchup recipe tomato paste` special.
• 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle, pungent bite that rounds out the spices.
• 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A hint of spice and warmth.

Choosing organic tomato paste can help you avoid pesticides, contributing to a truly `healthy family meal`. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, fitting various dietary needs. Tomato paste is shelf-stable year-round, making this a perfect pantry staple for `meal prep recipes`. Always choose cans or tubes without dents for the best quality ingredients.

Cooking Method, Simplified

Making this homemade `ketchup recipe tomato paste` is straightforward, even for busy evenings. Follow these steps for a smooth, flavorful result:

1. Sauté Aromatics & Build Flavor (5 minutes): In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the onion powder and garlic powder, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until they become wonderfully fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to deepen its flavor and color slightly. This step is crucial for rich taste.
2. Deglaze, Combine & Simmer (25-35 minutes): Pour in the white vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this deglazes it and incorporates all the concentrated flavors. Add the filtered water, maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, dry mustard powder, fine sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook, uncovered, for 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ketchup has thickened to your desired consistency. It should visibly coat the back of a spoon.
3. Blend & Adjust (3-4 minutes): Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully transfer the hot ketchup to a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes. (Exercise caution when blending hot liquids, starting on low and gradually increasing speed. I usually opt for an immersion blender right in the pot; it’s a quick shortcut for `easy dinner ideas`!) Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – you might want a touch more salt or sweetness. If your ketchup seems too thin, just return it to the saucepan and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring, until it reaches the perfect thickness.

Pour the finished `ketchup recipe tomato paste` into a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating. The flavor will deepen as it chills, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This `quick cooking` method ensures fresh, delicious ketchup anytime.

Perfect Moments to Serve Homemade Ketchup

Our homemade ketchup elevates everything from simple weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. It’s the ultimate condiment for classic burgers, crispy oven fries, and chicken tenders. I’ve even found it adds a lovely freshness when served alongside my family’s favorite meatloaf.

• For kids’ lunchboxes: Pack small portions in reusable containers with favorite dippables like carrot sticks or pretzel bites.
• For a festive table: Introduce a pinch of allspice or clove for a holiday-spiced ketchup recipe tomato paste.
• For meal prep: Prepare a generous batch at the start of the week for easy access, making family dinners a breeze.

This vibrant condiment pairs wonderfully with crispy oven fries or sweet potato wedges. It’s also a fantastic base for a quick homemade BBQ sauce or a zesty dipping sauce for grilled chicken.

Nutrition and Wellness Benefits

Making your own ketchup recipe tomato paste gives you full control over what goes into it, allowing for truly healthy family meals. It’s naturally high in lycopene from tomatoes, a powerful antioxidant known for its health benefits. You can easily manage sugar and sodium levels, crafting a condiment perfect for your family’s dietary needs.

• Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this recipe fits many dietary lifestyles without compromise.
• Easily adaptable for low-carb and keto diets by swapping sugar for sweeteners like erythritol, making it an excellent meal prep recipe for weight loss.
• Customizing sweeteners allows for fantastic low-calorie options, supporting balanced eating.
• By eliminating artificial ingredients and high-ffructose corn syrup, you contribute positively to healthy family meals.

Everyday Practical Benefits

Crafting this homemade ketchup is surprisingly simple and comes with many practical perks. It’s often more affordable than premium or organic store-bought ketchups, helping your grocery budget. Quick to make in under 40 minutes, it’s a fantastic quick cooking option for busy households.

• Excellent for meal prep, this ketchup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 weeks, ready when you need it.
• Easy storage in airtight glass jars or squeeze bottles keeps it fresh and accessible.
• Its portability makes it ideal for packed lunches or picnics, ensuring wholesome ingredients on the go.

Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades

For deeper, richer flavor in your homemade ketchup, try lightly toasting the tomato paste in a teaspoon of olive oil for a minute before adding any liquids. This caramelizes the sugars and intensifies the tomato notes. For the smoothest texture, strain your finished ketchup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.

• Smoky ketchup: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika for a robust, barbecue-like flavor.
• Spicy ketchup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a tiny amount of chipotle powder for a kick.
• Herbaceous ketchup: A pinch of dried oregano or basil offers a new, aromatic twist to your ketchup recipe tomato paste.

For dietary adjustments, you can omit salt entirely for a no-salt-added version or use a salt substitute. Always ensure all your spices are free from common allergens for safety and inclusivity.

Common Questions Answered

Is this ketchup recipe tomato paste suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, absolutely! Simply swap out regular sugar for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia to make this ketchup recipe tomato paste keto-friendly. Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.

What’s the best way to store this homemade ketchup recipe tomato paste for meal prep?

Store your homemade ketchup recipe tomato paste in an airtight glass jar or squeeze bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays then transfer to a freezer bag.

Where can I find high-quality ketchup recipe tomato paste ingredients online?

Look for organic, double-concentrated tomato paste from reputable brands online or at your local health food store. Quality ingredients make all the difference for this homemade ketchup recipe.

Can I make a larger batch of this ketchup recipe tomato paste to last longer?

Definitely! This ketchup recipe tomato paste scales up beautifully. Just double or triple the ingredients as needed and ensure you have a large enough pot for simmering.

How do I get a super smooth texture with my ketchup recipe tomato paste?

After simmering, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. For an even silkier texture, I always pass my finished ketchup recipe tomato paste through a fine-mesh sieve.

What if my ketchup recipe tomato paste isn’t thick enough?

Continue simmering your ketchup recipe tomato paste over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reduces to your desired thickness. Be patient, as reduction takes time but builds great flavor!

This ketchup recipe tomato paste isn’t just easy, it’s a game-changer for homemade condiments — healthy, delicious, and perfectly customized for your family. This simple condiment truly elevates our weekly family dinners. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with a friend, and make a batch tonight to upgrade your family’s favorite meals!

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