If you love bold flavors and want to elevate your meals with a homemade specialty, this Italian-style ketchup is the perfect choice. Made with fresh, ripe ingredients, this recipe brings the irresistible aroma and authentic taste of Italy right into your kitchen.
Easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors, this homemade ketchup pairs wonderfully with pasta, meats, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. Here’s how to make it from scratch!
Ingredients:
- 4 ½ lbs ripe cherry tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small chili pepper, chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 15 fresh basil leaves
- 7 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon black mustard seeds
- 1 pinch black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, bay leaf, garlic, vinegar, chili pepper, parsley, and basil leaves. Stir well and cook over low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the sauce through a fine sieve or blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add the cloves, salt, brown sugar, mustard seeds, and black pepper. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Pour the ketchup into sterilized jars while hot, seal tightly, and let cool.
