Simple Turkish Ketchup
A quick, no-cook version of Turkish ketchup that starts with tomato paste instead of fresh tomatoes — mix, simmer for ten minutes, and you have a rich, sweet-spicy ketchup that tastes like it slow-cooked all day.
| Amount | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1½ cups (360 ml) | tomato paste (double-concentrated) |
| 1½ cups (240 g) | brown sugar (or granulated sugar) |
| 4 cups (960 ml) | water |
| 1½ tbsp | apple cider vinegar or grape vinegar |
| 1½ tbsp | honey |
| 2 tsp | garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced) |
| 1 tsp | onion powder (or ¼ onion, finely grated) |
| 1 tsp | sweet paprika |
| ½ tsp | chili flakes (optional, for heat) |
| 1 tsp | fine sea salt |
This is the shortcut you have been looking for: all the deep, complex flavor of slow-simmered homemade ketchup, but ready in under 30 minutes. Tomato paste provides an intensely concentrated tomato base, while honey, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar build the sweet-tangy profile that makes ketchup so addictive. A touch of garlic and chili adds warmth and depth. The method could not be simpler — combine everything in a pot, simmer for 10 minutes, and jar it up. The result is a ketchup that is far superior to anything from a bottle, with a bright, fresh flavor and a smooth, spreadable texture.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato paste, water, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili flakes (if using), and salt. Whisk until the tomato paste is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ketchup has thickened to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Taste and adjust: add more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more chili for heat.
- Let cool completely, then transfer to sterilized jars. Refrigerate for up to 3 months.
| Storage | Method |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight jar for up to 3 months. |
Per Serving (1 tbsp): Calories 20, Fat 0g, Carbs 5g, Fiber 0g
Recipe from "The Italian Kitchen" by Vita Milanese — Volume 2: Sunday Sauce
Recipe from The Italian Kitchen by Vita Milanese — Volume 2 · Sunday Sauce. Discover all volumes on the ebook page.