Ketchup

A Homemade Classic with Real Ingredients and Bold Flavour

Skip the store-bought bottle and create your own rich, tangy ketchup from scratch. This version uses fresh tomatoes, sweet agave syrup, warm spices, and apple cider vinegar to deliver depth and a touch of heat. It's naturally sweetened, completely customizable, and ideal for dipping, spreading, or cooking.

Perfect for anyone seeking a more wholesome and vibrant take on this beloved condiment.

Kitchen Tools

• Saucepan with lid

• Hand blender or food processor

• Fine mesh strainer or sieve

Ingredients

• 2 kg fresh tomatoes, chopped

• 3 tablespoons agave syrup

• 1/2 purple onion, chopped

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 clove

• 1 slice fresh ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika

• 1 celery leaf

• Optional: pinch of salt, cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. Cook the base: In a large saucepan, combine the tomatoes, onion, garlic, clove, ginger, cinnamon (if using), cumin, and celery. Add just enough water to prevent sticking—don’t fully cover the ingredients.

2. Bring to a boil: Cover with a lid and bring to a boil over medium heat.

3. Simmer gently: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Then turn off the heat, remove the lid, and let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.

4. Blend and strain: Use a hand blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Strain through a fine sieve to remove skins and seeds.

5. Finish the sauce: Return the strained sauce to the pan over low heat. Stir in the agave syrup, paprika, apple cider vinegar, and salt to taste. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until slightly reduced.

6. Cool and store: Let the ketchup cool at room temperature. Pour into a clean jar or bottle with a lid and refrigerate.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with fries, veggie burgers, or falafel

• Use as a base for BBQ sauce

• Add to grain bowls or wraps for extra tang

Storage Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in small portions.

This homemade ketchup turns fresh ingredients and bold spices into a classic condiment with way more flavour than anything you’ll find in a bottle.