Vegan Tomato Ketchup Recipe: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

There’s something truly satisfying about making your own condiments at home, especially when it comes to a pantry staple like ketchup. This vegan tomato ketchup recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves that classic tangy, sweet, and savory flavor but wants to avoid the processed additives and preservatives found in store-bought versions.

By using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful ketchup that’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or pairing with your favorite dishes.

Whether you’re vegan, health-conscious, or just love cooking from scratch, this recipe offers a delightful alternative without compromising on taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and sweetness levels.

Dive into this kitchen project and discover how rewarding making your own vegan ketchup can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tomato ketchup recipe stands out because it is:

• All natural: Made with fresh tomatoes and wholesome ingredients, free from artificial preservatives and colorings.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and spice level to suit your palate.
• Easy to make: Requires simple cooking techniques and minimal equipment.
• Versatile: Perfect for burgers, fries, sandwiches, and even as a base for other sauces.
• Vegan and allergy-friendly: Free from animal products and common allergens like dairy or eggs.

You’ll also appreciate the rich, smoky undertone from the optional smoked paprika, adding depth to this classic condiment.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or brown sugar
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a mild kick)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (for richness and thickness)
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed for consistency)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender
• Fine mesh sieve or strainer (optional, for smooth ketchup)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass jar or airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. Prepare the tomatoes and aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat a small amount of water over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté gently until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes: Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) along with the tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
3. Season and sweeten: Add the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup (or brown sugar), sea salt, smoked paprika, allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir everything together.
4. Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Blend until smooth: Remove the saucepan from heat. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the mixture until completely smooth. For extra smooth ketchup, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract all the liquid.
6. Adjust consistency: If the ketchup is too thick, stir in a little water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Cool and store: Allow the ketchup to cool completely before transferring it to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the flavors to fully develop. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips & Variations

“For a tangier ketchup, add a bit more apple cider vinegar. If you prefer it sweeter, increase the maple syrup or brown sugar slightly.

Experiment with spices like clove or nutmeg for a unique twist!”

• Smoky BBQ Ketchup: Add 1 tsp liquid smoke or increase smoked paprika for a bold BBQ flavor.
• Spicy Ketchup: Increase cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme during simmering for a fresh herbal note.
• Chunky Style: Skip blending for a rustic, chunky ketchup perfect for dipping.
• Preserving Tips: For longer storage, sterilize your jars and consider canning the ketchup following safe home canning practices.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This homemade vegan tomato ketchup is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• As a classic dip for crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or veggie chips.
• Spread generously on vegan burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for added flavor.
• Use as a base for homemade BBQ sauce by mixing with vegan Worcestershire sauce and additional spices.
• Try it as a tangy complement to vegan meatloaf or chickpea patties.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts for a flavor boost.

For more flavorful vegan condiments and recipes, be sure to check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves – perfect companions for your homemade ketchup creations.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan tomato ketchup is a rewarding and delicious way to elevate everyday meals. This recipe combines wholesome, plant-based ingredients with simple cooking techniques to yield a rich and flavorful ketchup that’s free from unwanted additives.

Not only is it healthier, but it also gives you complete control over the taste, allowing you to customize it to your liking—whether sweeter, tangier, or with a spicy kick.

Once you’ve tried this homemade ketchup, you’ll likely find it hard to go back to store-bought versions. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from fries to sandwiches and more.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan recipes on our site like the Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and the Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and happy dipping!

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