If you’ve ever wanted a condiment that tastes fresher, richer, and has more depth than anything you’d find on a store shelf, this Homemade Ketchup Recipe delivers all that and more. Made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant spices, and a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, it’s a small kitchen project with big payoff.
Whether you’re pairing it with crispy fries, spreading it on burgers, or stirring it into your favorite barbecue sauce, this ketchup brings a homemade touch to every bite. Skip the additives and mystery ingredients—this version is completely customizable and filled with natural flavor.
Ingredients for this Homemade Ketchup Recipe
- 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
- ¼ cup honey or sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp allspice (optional)
- ¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the tomato paste, honey (or sugar), vinegar, and water until smooth. Let the mixture begin to heat through.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, and any optional spices you’re using (like cloves, allspice, or cayenne pepper). Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning at the bottom.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste your ketchup. Add more vinegar for tang, a bit more sugar for sweetness, or a pinch more salt to enhance flavor. Adjust to your liking.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let the ketchup cool. Transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container and refrigerate. It will thicken slightly as it cools and can be stored for up to 3 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade ketchup last?
It lasts up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
Yes! Simmer peeled and crushed fresh tomatoes until they reduce and thicken, then continue with the rest of the recipe.
Is this ketchup suitable for canning?
This recipe is not tested for safe canning. For long-term pantry storage, follow a tested canning-specific ketchup recipe.
What vinegar is best for ketchup?
White vinegar is traditional and gives a classic tang, but you can substitute with apple cider vinegar for a more mellow flavor.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Absolutely. Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just adjust quantities to taste.
How can I make it spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even chipotle powder to give your ketchup a bold kick.
Homemade Ketchup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 1½ cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
Description
Ditch the store-bought bottle and whip up your own batch of rich, zesty, and all-natural Homemade Ketchup. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking for quick food ideas, healthier condiments, or DIY kitchen inspiration. It delivers deep tomato flavor with warm spices, a sweet-and-tangy balance, and no preservatives. Whether you need an easy dinner companion, a healthy snack dip, or you’re building your own burger bar, this homemade ketchup makes it special. A satisfying addition to your breakfast ideas or dinner table essentials, it brings flavor and freshness in every spoonful.
Ingredients
1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste
¼ cup honey or sugar
½ cup white vinegar
½ cup water
1 tsp salt
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp allspice (optional)
¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
¼ tsp paprika
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together tomato paste, honey (or sugar), vinegar, and water until smooth.
- Add all the spices and mix well.
- Simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust flavor as needed (add more vinegar, sugar, or salt).
- Let cool, then transfer to a jar or container and refrigerate.