Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (2024)

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Balsamic Ketchup is a rich and savory version of your favorite condiment that you can make in minutes. This homemade ketchup recipe with a burst of balsamic vinegar flavor adds something special to burgers, fries, and more. No added sugar, plus it is vegan, gluten free, and paleo.

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (4)

Originally published on Apr 26, 2012

My kid is a very good eater, but there are some times that he is very picky. Except when you cover something in some sort of sauce, or give him a little “dip dip.” Sometimes it is teriyaki sauce or barbecue sauce, other times it is Ranch dip or salsa.

But, like most kids, ketchup is the condiment of choice. So when I really want to get him to eat something, even something he previously turned his nose at, I squirt on a bit of ketchup.

Not in the mood for egg muffins? Add ketchup.

Doesn’t want to eat roasted vegetables? Add ketchup.

Refuses cheesy quinoa? You got it! Add ketchup.

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (5)

How to Make Balsamic Ketchup

All you have to do to make balsamic ketchup is combine the ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth! It takes five minutes and no cooking required.

What is in Balsamic Ketchup?

  • Tomato paste
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Dry mustard powder
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried basil
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Pepper

How do you store homemade ketchup? How long does it last?

I often transfer the ketchup to an old plastic ketchup or mustard bottle that I’ve washed out. Or you can store it in a mason jar, squeeze bottle, or another airtight container. Then store it in the refrigerator. It will last up to a couple of months.

Pro tips:

  • We LOVE balsamic vinegar, but if you think this might be too strong for you, then you can cut the amount and add in a little water to get the consistency you want. But the flavor does mellow as it sits.
  • As mentioned, it can be stored for quite a long time in the fridge.
  • However, if this is too large of a batch for you, you can easily cut it in half by using one of the small 6 ounce cans of tomato paste.

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (6)

Is balsamic ketchup gluten free? Is it paleo and low carb?

None of the ingredients in this recipe contain gluten. There is also no added sugar.

Always be sure to use brands of herbs and spices that do not use fillers that may contain gluten, such as McCormick.

And check the brand of balsamic vinegar you are using. A few inexpensive brands use caramel coloring, which may be a hidden source of sugar and gluten.

While it is sugar-free and relatively low in carbs compared to commercial ketchup, it would probably not be considered keto-friendly. However, the carbs do come just from the fiber and natural sugars present in tomatoes.

Is balsamic ketchup vegan?

Yes, it is vegan. It does not contain any ingredients of animal origin.

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (7)

What can you dip in Balsamic Ketchup?

  • Baked Cauliflower Tots are a crispy, cheesy, healthy alternative to tater tots.
  • Italian Herb Baked French Fries have the perfect flavor to complement this recipe.
  • Cornmeal Crusted Asparagus adds a crispy coating to those gorgeous stalks.
  • Potato Zucchini Tots sneak some greens into a basic tater tot.
  • Spinach Artichoke Quinoa Bites turn a favorite dip combo into protein-packed, whole grain finger food.
  • Air Fryer Zucchini with salty parmesan are the perfect complement.

What other types of gourmet ketchup can you make?

  • Buffalo Ketchup kicks up your basic ketchup recipe.
  • Worcestershire Ketchup has a steakhouse flavor that complements your burgers.
  • Cranberry Balsamic Ketchup adds a sweet-tart twist to the basic balsamic ketchup.
  • Whiskey BBQ Ketchup is bold with a hint of booziness.

Balsamic Ketchup

Add an extra burst of rich umami flavor to everyone’s favorite condiment. The addition of balsamic vinegar makes it tangy and savory. Plus there is no added sugar, so it’s practically a serving of veggies!

I hope you’ll leave a comment and give it a FIVE STAR rating or share a photo on Pinterest!

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (8)

4 from 3 votes

Balsamic Ketchup

A rich and savory condiment that adds something special to burgers, fries, and more. In minutes you can make this Balsamic Ketchup recipe. Gluten free, grain free, low carb, and vegan.

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Ingredients

  • 12 oz. tomato paste (one 12 oz. can or two 6 oz. cans)
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (you can use less and make up the difference with water if this is too vinegary for you)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  • Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl, and mix well.

Notes

You can also cut this recipe in half and use one of the small 6 oz. cans of tomato paste, if you don't want so much. But store it in a cleaned out ketchup or mustard bottle, and it will keep in the fridge for months.

Recipe yields about 1 cup of balsamic ketchup.

Nutrition Facts

Balsamic Ketchup

Amount Per Serving (1 Tablespoon)

Calories 32

% Daily Value*

Sodium 244mg10%

Potassium 233mg7%

Carbohydrates 6g2%

Sugar 4g4%

Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 325IU7%

Vitamin C 4.6mg6%

Calcium 14mg1%

Iron 0.8mg4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author: Brianne @ Cupcakes & Kale Chips

Course: Condiments

Cuisine: American

Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (9)

Did you make this?

Leave a rating below and tag @cupcakesandkalechips on Instagram and hashtag it #cupcakesandkalechips

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Categories:

  • Dinner
  • Dips and Spreads
  • Family Friendly
  • Gluten Free
  • Mains
  • Sauces and Condiments
  • Vegan
  • Veggies

Enjoy!

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    Homemade Balsamic Ketchup Recipe (2024)

    FAQs

    Is it worth making homemade ketchup? ›

    I wouldn't tell you to make your own ketchup if I didn't think it was worth it. This ketchup recipe makes the most delicious ketchup that knocks the socks off anything you can buy in the condiment aisle. I love how this recipe uses real ingredients and how we can control how sweet our ketchup turns out.

    What happened to Heinz balsamic ketchup? ›

    In 2011 they also started manufacturing a variety with balsamic vinegar. This variety was discontinued in 2018.

    What are the first three ingredients in Heinz ketchup? ›

    It's actually pretty easy. What are the five main ingredients in Heinz ketchup? According to the label.... Tomatoes (126g per 100g of ketchup), Spirit vinegar, Glugose syrup Sugar, Salt, Spices and herb extracts, Spice, Garlic powder.

    How do I thicken my homemade ketchup? ›

    But if you want a thicker texture, whisk two tablespoons of cornstarch into 1/4 cup of cold water. Once the ketchup has been run through the sieve twice, return the ketchup to the stove and bring to a low simmer. Slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the ketchup until you have the consistency you want.

    Is homemade ketchup cheaper than store-bought? ›

    As someone that has made my own ketchup and tomato sauces at home, I challenge the “cheap” part of that. I've always found it more expensive to make my own, not less. That doesn't mean it's not worth it to buy the ingredients I need (if I could grow them myself, that might make a big difference in cost, but I can't).

    What is an unhealthy ingredient in ketchup? ›

    Two ingredients of concern in ketchup are salt and sugar. Per tablespoon, ketchup contains 4 grams of sugar and 190 milligrams of sodium. Although 4 grams of sugar doesn't seem like a lot, much of it comes from added sugar, as opposed to the natural sugar found in tomatoes.

    Why does McDonald's not use Heinz ketchup? ›

    However, in 2013 Heinz was acquired by a new company with a new CEO, Bernado Hees. Hees was the former CEO of Burger King, McDonald's fast food rival. Because of Hees' history with Burger King, McDonald's decided to end its 40-year partnership with Heinz and produce its own ketchup instead.

    Why avoid Heinz ketchup? ›

    It contains high quantities of sugar, salt, fructose, preservatives and corn syrup. All of these ingredients when combined together have an adverse effect on the body.

    What is the oldest ketchup brand? ›

    In 1876, the world of ketchup changed forever. A first-generation German American named Henry J. Heinz launched his bottled version of ketchup—spelled “catsup”—following his success with bottled grated horseradish, which the company advertised alongside dozens of other products.

    What ketchup does McDonald's use? ›

    In particular, McDonald's ketchup isn't a commercially-available brand like Heinz or Hunt's, it's their own proprietary blend -- and that makes all the difference. You might think this means they add something unique to the mix, but you'd be wrong.

    Why is there a 57 on Heinz ketchup? ›

    Heinz's lucky number. According to the company's website, in 1896, the founder was inspired by an advertisem*nt he saw for “21 styles of shoes.” He considered 57 to be magical and lucky, so he came up with the slogan “57 Varieties” despite the fact the company offered more than 60 products at the time.

    Why does Heinz Tomato Ketchup have 57 on it? ›

    “The '57 varieties' label on the neck of Heinz Tomato Ketchup was surprisingly selected at random by founder Henry Heinz,” Andrea Payne, head of marketing and taste elevation for Heinz ANZ, told news.com.au.

    What makes ketchup extra fancy? ›

    Some ketchup in the U.S. is labeled "Fancy". This is a USDA grade, relating to specific gravity. Fancy ketchup has a higher tomato solid concentration than other USDA grades.

    Does tomato paste go bad? ›

    Tomato paste lasts in the fridge for five to seven days in a covered glass or plastic container. When stored in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, tomato paste will maintain its best quality for three to four months in the freezer and remain safe to consume after this time.

    What is the watery stuff in ketchup? ›

    As these gels contract towards one another, their ability to hold onto excess liquid decreases, and water is left behind. Thus, ketchup, which contains weak gelatinizing agents such as pectin and xanthan gum, is highly susceptible to this scientific process (via Cook's Illustrated).

    How long does homemade ketchup last? ›

    Pack and Store Your Homemade Ketchup

    Ladle your ketchup directly into sterilized jars and store in fridge or freezer. Ketchup will keep 3 weeks in the fridge or 6 months in the freezer.

    What are the disadvantages of tomato ketchup? ›

    Tomato Ketchup can be harmful because it contains high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats. A nutrient-dense food provides protective micronutrients and helps to build immunity. Excessive consumption of foods with fructose corn syrup is related to high triglycerides and heart problems.

    Why avoid Heinz tomato ketchup? ›

    It contains high quantities of sugar, salt, fructose, preservatives and corn syrup. All of these ingredients when combined together have an adverse effect on the body.

    How much money does ketchup make a year? ›

    Revenue in the Tomato Ketchup market amounts to US$6.07bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 2.35% (CAGR 2024-2028). In global comparison, most revenue is generated in the United States (US$6,072m in 2024). In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$17.94 are generated in 2024.

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