Banana Ketchup Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious & Homemade

If you’ve never tried banana ketchup, you’re in for a delightful surprise. This uniquely sweet and tangy condiment is a beloved staple in Filipino cuisine, traditionally made with bananas, vinegar, and spices.

What makes it even better? You can easily make it vegan at home, free from any animal products, and customize it to your taste.

Whether you’re looking for a new twist on ketchup or a flavorful sauce to elevate your dishes, this banana ketchup recipe vegan will quickly become a pantry favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a luscious, thick sauce that pairs perfectly with fries, burgers, or even as a dipping sauce for your favorite snacks.

Making banana ketchup from scratch not only gives you control over the ingredients but also lets you avoid the added preservatives and artificial colors found in store-bought versions. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas that might be otherwise overlooked.

Let’s dive into this delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan banana ketchup recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.

Second, it captures the perfect balance of sweetness from ripe bananas, tanginess from vinegar, and the warmth of spices, delivering a complex flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to tweak. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili, or experiment with different types of vinegar for unique flavor notes.

It’s also a healthier alternative to traditional ketchup, with no high fructose corn syrup or artificial additives.

Finally, making your own banana ketchup is fun and rewarding. It’s a great conversation starter at your next BBQ or potluck, and pairs beautifully with many dishes—from classic vegan burgers to roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas (preferably very soft for sweetness)
• 1/2 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder taste)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup tomato paste (adds depth and color)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Blender or food processor
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth texture)
• Heatproof jar or bottle for storage

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Peel the ripe bananas and slice them into chunks. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bananas: Stir in the banana chunks and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their sweetness.
4. Combine remaining ingredients: Add the tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Pour in the water and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken slightly.
6. Blend until smooth: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Transfer it to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a very smooth ketchup, strain the sauce through a fine mesh strainer back into the saucepan or a bowl.
7. Adjust seasoning and consistency: Return the blended sauce to low heat and cook for another 5 minutes to thicken if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, sugar, or vinegar to your preference.
8. Cool and store: Let the banana ketchup cool completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Tips & Variations

“If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering stage.”

• Sweetness level: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness. If you want a less sweet ketchup, reduce the brown sugar or replace it with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Vinegar choice: Try using apple cider vinegar for a milder, fruitier tang, or white wine vinegar for a subtle, sophisticated flavor.
• Smoky flavor: For an extra smoky twist, add a small amount of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt.
• Garlic and onion: Roasting the garlic and onion before adding them can add a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Storage: This ketchup keeps well in the fridge, but you can also freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Banana ketchup is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Use it as a dipping sauce for crispy fries or sweet potato wedges.
• Spread it on vegan burgers or sandwiches for a tropical twist.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables or tofu for a burst of flavor.
• Mix it into vegan meatballs or patties for added moisture and taste.
• Try it as a glaze for grilled eggplant or tempeh skewers.

If you’re interested in more creative vegan recipes, check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe or explore the delightful Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe to use up extra bananas in a sweet way!

Conclusion

Making your own vegan banana ketchup at home is a rewarding experience that brings a fresh and exciting flavor to your kitchen. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and free from animal products, making it perfect for vegans and anyone looking to try something new.

Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite fries or adding a unique touch to your sandwiches, this sauce is sure to impress.

Not only does it taste amazing, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to repurpose ripe bananas in a savory context.

Don’t forget to experiment with spices and sweetness levels to make it truly your own. For more tasty ideas, consider trying our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for a sweet treat or the savory Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to complement your banana ketchup creations.

Enjoy your homemade banana ketchup adventure!

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