Sriracha ketchup is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that takes your favorite condiment to the next level. Combining the classic taste of ketchup with the bold kick of sriracha creates a versatile sauce that works great as a dip, spread, or marinade. It’s a simple way to add a little heat and excitement to everyday meals.
We love making this homemade sriracha ketchup because it’s easy to customize the spice level and control the ingredients. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate burgers, fries, sandwiches, and even grilled veggies. Once you try this recipe you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed ketchup without that fiery twist.
Ingredients
To make our bold and flavorful Sriracha Ketchup, gather the following ingredients that balance sweetness, tanginess, and heat perfectly. Each component plays a key role in creating that signature spicy ketchup taste we love.
- 1 cup ketchup – Use your favorite brand or homemade for a personalized base.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce – Adjust based on your preferred spice level.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Adds tangy brightness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Brings natural sweetness that complements the heat.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances smoky undertones and richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a subtle savory note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances flavors and enhances seasoning.
- A pinch of black pepper – Adds mild warmth and complexity.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ketchup | 1 cup | Base and sweet tomato flavor |
| Sriracha sauce | 2-3 tablespoons | Spicy heat component |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Tanginess and sharpness |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon | Sweetness to balance spice |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Smoky flavor depth |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Savory note |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
| Black pepper | Pinch | Mild warmth |
Pro Tip: For a milder sauce, start with 2 tablespoons of sriracha and increase as you taste along. The beauty of making your own Sriracha Ketchup is customizing the heat and sweetness to suit your palate perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To make our bold and flavorful Sriracha Ketchup Recipe, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. Here is what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized bowl to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Spoons
Accurate measurement of spices, vinegar, and sauces is crucial for consistent flavor.
- Whisk or Spoon
Use a whisk for a smoother sauce or a spoon to mix gently, ensuring all components blend evenly.
- Airtight Container or Jar
To store our homemade sriracha ketchup and preserve freshness.
- Small Saucepan (optional)
If you prefer to warm the mixture slightly to better meld flavors, a small saucepan is helpful.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate measurement of components |
| Whisk or Spoon | Blend ingredients uniformly |
| Airtight Container | Store and preserve the sauce |
| Small Saucepan | Optional warming and flavor melding |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Sriracha Ketchup that balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Our method ensures a smooth blend and customizable heat level.
Prepare the Ingredients
- Measure all ingredients precisely: ketchup, sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Use a medium-sized mixing bowl for convenient combining.
- For best results, have measuring spoons, a whisk or spoon ready.
- If you prefer warming the sauce, prepare a small saucepan.
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | Measure 1 cup |
| Sriracha sauce | Start with 2 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon, ready to pour |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon, for sweetness |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon, adds smokiness |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon, enhances flavor |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon, balances taste |
| Black pepper | ⅛ teaspoon, adds subtle heat |
Mix the Ingredients
- Combine ketchup and sriracha sauce in the mixing bowl.
- Add apple cider vinegar and honey to introduce tanginess and natural sweetness.
- Sprinkle in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Optional: Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and warm over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This step mellows flavors and helps meld them perfectly.
Adjusting the Flavor
- Taste your Sriracha Ketchup carefully.
- If you desire a milder sauce, add more ketchup and reduce sriracha in ½-tablespoon increments.
- For extra heat, increase sriracha gradually, whisking well after each addition.
- Balance sweetness by adding a touch more honey as needed.
- For sharper tang, add a little more apple cider vinegar but no more than 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Final seasoning adjustments: sprinkle salt or pepper cautiously to sharpen or mellow the sauce.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of our Sriracha Ketchup. Follow these steps to keep your sauce vibrant and safe for consumption.
- Use an Airtight Container
Transfer the sriracha ketchup into a clean, airtight glass jar or plastic container immediately after preparation. This prevents air exposure which can degrade the taste and cause spoilage.
- Refrigerate Promptly
Always store the sauce in the refrigerator. The cool temperature slows bacterial growth and preserves the bold flavors longer. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.
- Ideal Shelf Life
When refrigerated properly, our Sriracha Ketchup will last up to 3 weeks. Beyond this, the taste may deteriorate and the sauce could lose its spicy kick.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination
Use a clean spoon each time you scoop out the sauce to prevent introducing bacteria. Keeping the container sealed tightly after every use helps maintain quality.
Sriracha Ketchup Storage Summary
| Storage Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Container Type | Airtight glass or plastic |
| Storage Location | Refrigerator |
| Maximum Shelf Life | Up to 3 weeks |
| Handling Tips | Use clean utensils, seal tightly |
“Proper storage is essential to enjoy the full fiery flavor of our homemade sriracha ketchup every time.”
By following these storage tips, we ensure that our spicy ketchup stays flavorful and ready to elevate burgers, fries, and more.
Serving Suggestions
Our Sriracha Ketchup brings a bold and spicy twist to classic dishes. Here are creative and delicious ways to enjoy this versatile sauce:
Perfect Dipping Companion
- Serve as a dip with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or crunchy onion rings.
- Use it alongside chicken nuggets or popcorn shrimp to add a zesty kick.
- Combine with mayonnaise or sour cream for a creamy, spicy dipping sauce.
Flavorful Burger and Sandwich Spread
- Spread generously on burger buns or sandwich bread to enhance every bite with Sriracha Ketchup’s sweet heat.
- Mix into coleslaw or as a base for sandwich dressings to bring an exciting flavor upgrade.
Tangy Marinade and Glaze
- Use as a glaze for grilled chicken, pork, or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking to lock in a tangy spice.
- Marinate tofu or vegetables before roasting or grilling for a fiery boost.
Creative Recipe Pairings
- Drizzle over scrambled eggs or omelets for a spicy breakfast.
- Stir into macaroni and cheese or baked beans for a crave-worthy twist.
- Add to homemade meatloaf or meatball mixtures to infuse added flavor complexity.
| Serving Use | Recommended Pairings | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dip | Fries, nuggets, shrimp | Combine with ranch or aioli for variety |
| Spread | Burgers, sandwiches | Apply thick for bold flavor |
| Marinade/Glaze | Chicken, salmon, tofu, veggies | Brush on during grill or oven cooking |
| Recipe Enhancement | Eggs, mac and cheese, meatloaf | Add small amounts and adjust to taste |
“The Sriracha Ketchup Recipe is not just a condiment—it’s a catalyst for flavor creativity in your kitchen.”
By using Sriracha Ketchup as a dip, spread, glaze, or ingredient, we transform ordinary meals into bold and exciting experiences with every bite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To ensure our Sriracha Ketchup delivers bold flavors whenever we want, making it ahead of time is essential. This allows the ingredients to meld perfectly, intensifying the sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
Step-by-Step Make-Ahead Guide
- Prepare the Sauce in Advance:
After whisking the sriracha, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth, transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- Refrigerate Promptly:
Store the sauce in the refrigerator immediately. Refrigeration slows bacterial growth and preserves vibrant flavors. We recommend refrigeration for at least 24 hours before use to achieve optimal flavor blending.
- Flavor Development Time:
The longer the sauce rests, the more the heat and tanginess balance with the sweetness. For best results, allow the sauce to rest between 1 to 3 days.
- Shake or Stir Before Serving:
Since ingredients may settle or separate slightly during storage, give the container a good shake or stir before each use to restore the silky consistency.
Storage Timeline and Tips
| Storage Condition | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated in airtight jar | Up to 3 weeks | Use clean utensils to avoid contamination. |
| Room temperature (not ideal) | Not recommended | Flavor deteriorates quickly, spoilage risk. |
“Pro Tip: Keeping your sriracha ketchup in a glass jar helps maintain flavor integrity and makes it easier to monitor freshness.”
Freezing Option
For longer storage, we can freeze the sauce:
- Portion into small containers or ice cube trays.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
Note that freezing may slightly alter texture but the flavor stays rich and spicy.
By following these make-ahead instructions we keep our sriracha ketchup fresh and full of flavor, ready to spice up any meal with zero stress.
Conclusion
Sriracha ketchup brings a bold twist to any dish, turning everyday meals into exciting flavor experiences. By making it at home, we get full control over the heat and sweetness, ensuring it suits our taste perfectly.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this versatile sauce quickly becomes a kitchen staple. Whether as a dip, spread, or marinade, it adds a spicy kick that’s sure to impress.
Let’s embrace the creativity sriracha ketchup inspires and enjoy the delicious results every time we cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sriracha ketchup?
Sriracha ketchup is a spicy twist on traditional ketchup, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of ketchup with the heat and flavor of sriracha sauce. It enhances ordinary meals with a bold, spicy kick.
What ingredients do I need to make sriracha ketchup?
You’ll need ketchup, sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients create the layered sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor.
Can I adjust the spice level of sriracha ketchup?
Yes, you can easily customize the heat by starting with less sriracha and adding more gradually to suit your preferred spice level.
What equipment is required for making sriracha ketchup?
A medium mixing bowl, measuring spoons, a whisk or spoon, an airtight container for storage, and optionally a small saucepan for warming the sauce.
How do I prepare sriracha ketchup?
Measure all ingredients, combine them in a bowl, whisk until smooth, and optionally warm the mixture to blend flavors. Adjust flavors to taste before storing.
How should I store homemade sriracha ketchup?
Store it in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. Use clean utensils each time to avoid contamination, and consume it within three weeks for best flavor.
Can sriracha ketchup be used in recipes other than as a dip?
Yes, it’s versatile—use it as a spread, marinade, glaze, or mix it into dishes like coleslaw, scrambled eggs, or macaroni and cheese.
Is it better to prepare sriracha ketchup ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it 24 hours in advance enhances flavor as ingredients meld. It tastes best after 1 to 3 days refrigerated.
How long can homemade sriracha ketchup last?
It stays fresh for up to three weeks in the refrigerator and can be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make a milder version of sriracha ketchup?
Absolutely, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce and increase honey or ketchup slightly to balance the flavors for a gentler heat.