Homemade Ketchup (Canning Recipe)

Nothing compares to the rich, fresh flavor of homemade ketchup made from vine-ripened tomatoes and a carefully balanced blend of warm spices. Thick, smooth, and perfectly sweet with just the right amount of tang, this classic condiment is a delicious way to preserve the bounty of your summer garden while creating a pantry staple the whole family will enjoy.

Unlike many store-bought varieties, homemade ketchup delivers a deep tomato flavor enhanced by onions, celery, apple cider vinegar, and aromatic spices. Slow simmering allows the ingredients to concentrate into a velvety sauce that’s ideal for everything from burgers and fries to meatloaf, hot dogs, sandwiches, and homemade barbecue recipes.

Canning your own ketchup is a rewarding project that transforms fresh tomatoes into a versatile condiment you can enjoy throughout the year. As the jars rest in the pantry, the spices continue to infuse the sauce, creating an even richer, smoother flavor that improves with time.

Whether you’re preserving a bumper crop of garden tomatoes or simply love making homemade pantry staples, this traditional ketchup recipe is sure to become a favorite. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for family and friends who appreciate classic, home-preserved foods.

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Servings: About 6 half-pint jars

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours

Ingredients :

  • 24 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and quartered
  • 2 cups chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1½ cups apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons canning or pickling salt
  • 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • 2 cinnamon sticks

Instructions:

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