Sugar-Free Homemade Ketchup That Tastes Just Like Heinz!

Ketchup is a household favorite—whether it’s paired with crispy fries, slathered on burgers, or used as a tangy dipping sauce. But did you know that most store-bought ketchups are loaded with sugar? A single tablespoon can contain up to 4g of sugar! For those of us aiming to stay healthy, that can add up quickly.

That’s why I decided to create a sugar-free version that tastes just as good as Heinz but is completely guilt-free. This homemade ketchup is naturally sweetened, free of preservatives, and just as thick, tangy, and rich as the original. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make.

Why Make Your Own Ketchup?

Making your own ketchup isn’t just about cutting out sugar—it’s about taking control of what you’re putting into your body. Here are some reasons to give this recipe a try:

• No Added Sugar:

Sweetened with natural, low-calorie alternatives like monk fruit or erythritol, making it perfect for low-carb, keto, or sugar-conscious diets.

• Preservative-Free:

Unlike store-bought condiments, this recipe contains no artificial ingredients.

• Customizable Flavor:

Adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or spice level to suit your taste.

• Healthier for All:

A better option for kids, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking for healthier condiment choices.

How Does This Compare to Heinz?

The secret to mimicking Heinz ketchup lies in balancing sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This recipe includes a touch of allspice and ground cloves, two key spices that give Heinz its unique depth. Combined with tomato paste, vinegar, and natural sweeteners, it’s hard to tell this isn’t the real thing!

Homemade Sugar-Free Ketchup Recipe

Ingredients

• 170g (6 ounces) unsweetened tomato paste (from a jar or tube)

• 1/2 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar for a sharper tang)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 tsp allspice

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional, for a subtle Heinz-like touch)

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• 2-3 tbsp erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or stevia (adjust for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the tomato paste, water, vinegar, and lemon juice until smooth.

2. Add Spices:

Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, allspice, and cloves. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

3. Sweeten It:

Add your chosen sweetener gradually, tasting as you go to balance the sweetness and tanginess.

4. Simmer:

Place the saucepan over low heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step melds the flavors beautifully.

5. Perfect the Texture:

If the ketchup is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Cool and Store:

Let the ketchup cool completely before transferring it to a sterilized jar or bottle. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon)

Here’s the approximate breakdown based on the recipe:

• Calories: 5

• Protein: 0.2g

• Fat: 0g

• Carbohydrates: 1g

• Sugars: 0g

• Fiber: 0.3g

• Sodium: 100mg (adjustable)

Micronutrients & Antioxidants:

• Vitamin C:

Found in tomato paste and lemon juice, supports immune health.

• Lycopene:

A powerful antioxidant in tomatoes that may help protect against heart disease and certain cancers.

• Potassium:

Helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions.

Why Bother Making Ketchup from Scratch?

Now, I know what you might be thinking: why bother making ketchup from scratch when it’s so easy to grab a bottle off the shelf? And isn’t homemade more expensive?

Sure, a bottle of Heinz might seem quicker, easier, and cheaper at first glance. But let’s look beyond convenience and cost to what truly matters:

• Health Benefits:

Homemade ketchup gives you control over every ingredient, eliminating added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. You’re feeding your body real, wholesome food—something you can’t put a price on.

• Long-Term Rewards:

Prioritizing unprocessed, homemade foods can lead to better health, reducing medical costs and improving your quality of life in the long run.

• Taste and Customization:

This recipe replicates the flavor of Heinz while allowing you to tweak sweetness, tanginess, or spice levels to your preference.

• Connection to Food:

Making your own ketchup reconnects you with what you eat, offering a sense of accomplishment no store-bought bottle can match.

Tips for the Perfect Ketchup

• Tangier Flavor:

Add more vinegar for an extra zing.

• Smoother Texture:

Blend the ketchup with an immersion blender for a velvety finish.

• Spicy Kick:

Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for some heat.

• Pair It Up:

Pair this ketchup with my Black Bean Burgers or drizzle it over my sweet potato wedges.

Why Natural Sweeteners Are Better

Unlike refined sugar, sweeteners like monk fruit or erythritol have minimal impact on blood sugar levels and provide the same sweetness without the calories. This makes them a great choice for anyone watching their sugar intake or trying to avoid spikes in blood glucose.

Storage and Usage

• Storage:

Keep this ketchup in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts up to 3 weeks!

• Freezing:

Freeze in small portions and thaw as needed.

• Pairings:

Use with my sweet potato wedges, burgers, tofu nuggets, or even stirred into a vegan chili for added flavor.

Share Your Creations!

I’d love to see how you use this homemade ketchup in your meals. Share your creations 🍽️🪄on social media and tag me so I can feature your dishes! ❤️