French's Tomato Ketchup 20 oz Recipe

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French's Tomato Ketchup 20 oz Recipe

Introduction

The rich, tangy flavor of French's Tomato Ketchup has been a kitchen staple for generations. While the convenience of store-bought ketchup is undeniable, there's something truly satisfying about crafting your own at home. In this article, we'll guide you through a simple and delicious recipe to make 20 ounces of French's-style tomato ketchup from scratch.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before diving into the culinary adventure, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 2 1/2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

French's Tomato Ketchup 20 oz Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and chop the tomatoes, removing the cores. You can leave the skin on for added texture.
2. Cooking the Base: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped tomatoes and onions. Cook over medium heat until they begin to soften.
3. Simmering Perfection: Add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, ground mustard, cinnamon, allspice, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.
5. Blending the Magic: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then use an immersion blender to puree the ketchup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the mixture to a regular blender in batches.
6. Strain for Smoothness: For an extra-smooth ketchup, strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids.
7. Bottle It Up: Once your ketchup reaches the desired consistency, transfer it to sterilized bottles or jars. Leave some headspace at the top to account for expansion.
8. Chill and Enjoy: Allow the ketchup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Customizing Your Ketchup

Feel free to get creative with your homemade ketchup. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth or experiment with different spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.

The Benefits of Homemade Ketchup

Creating your own ketchup allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful condiment. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste buds.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?

While fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch.

How long will homemade ketchup last in the refrigerator?

Homemade ketchup can last up to a month when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.

Is this recipe suitable for canning?

Absolutely! Follow proper canning procedures if you plan to store your ketchup for an extended period.

Can I use this ketchup as a base for barbecue sauce?

Certainly! Customize the ketchup with additional ingredients like molasses, garlic, and smoked paprika for a delicious barbecue sauce base.

French's Tomato Ketchup 20 oz

Conclusion

Crafting French's-style Tomato Ketchup at home is a rewarding experience that elevates your culinary skills. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your condiment, and savor the rich, homemade flavor. Share your creation with friends and family, and let the compliments roll in.