Homemade Single Serve Ketchup Packet 9 gr Recipe: A Healthier, Tastier Alternative

Category: Sauce

Introduction

Heinz ketchup, a staple in kitchens and restaurants worldwide, has been a favorite condiment for over 150 years. Its iconic single-serve packets are convenient and perfectly portioned, but they often contain added preservatives and sugars. Making your own single-serve ketchup at home allows you to control the ingredients, reduce sugar content, and enjoy the same tangy, slightly sweet flavor you love—without the drawbacks of store-bought versions.

This recipe is designed to mimic the exact taste and texture of Heinz ketchup while offering a healthier, customizable alternative. By using fresh, wholesome ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can create your own single-serve ketchup packets that are not only delicious but also better for you.

Personal Anecdote

I remember being obsessed with Heinz ketchup as a kid, always asking for those little red packets at fast-food restaurants. But when I started paying attention to food labels, I was surprised by how much sugar and sodium were packed into each tiny serving. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a homemade version that I could feel good about eating—and sharing with my family.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own ketchup at home offers several advantages:

• Healthier Ingredients: Reduce or eliminate added sugars and preservatives.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or flavor profile to suit your taste preferences.
• Cost-Effective: Making ketchup in bulk can save money compared to buying single-serve packets.
• Freshness: Enjoy the vibrant flavor of freshly made ketchup without shelf-stabilizers.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:20 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:9 grams per serving (makes approximately 10-12 single-serve packets)

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60g) apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60g) honey or natural sweetener (e.g., maple syrup, monk fruit sweetener)
• 1/4 cup (60g) tomato paste (or 2 ripe tomatoes, blended)

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 tsp (5g) salt
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 tsp (1g) smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

Instructions

• Prepare the Tomato Base:

• If using fresh tomatoes, rinse and blend them into a smooth paste. If using tomato paste, skip this step.

• Combine Wet Ingredients:

• In a small saucepan, mix water, vinegar, and honey or natural sweetener. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sweetener dissolves.

• Add Tomato Paste or Fresh Tomato Puree:

• Stir in the tomato paste or fresh tomato puree. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

• Mix in Spices:

• Add salt, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and smoked paprika (if using). Stir well to combine.

• Simmer:

• Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your liking. You can test the consistency by drizzling a small amount on a plate; if it holds its shape without running, it’s ready.

• Strain and Cool:

• Remove from heat and strain the ketchup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids or spices. Let it cool to room temperature.

• Portion into Single-Serve Packets:

• Spoon the cooled ketchup into small airtight containers or reusable pouches. Each serving should be about 9 grams (roughly 1-2 tsp).

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add diced jalapeños during simmering.
• Smoky Version: Add 1/2 tsp of liquid smoke for a deeper, BBQ-inspired flavor.
• No-Cook Version: Blend fresh tomatoes, vinegar, and spices, then let it sit in the fridge for 24 hours to develop flavor.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes or high-quality tomato paste.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking.
• Simmer Slowly: A longer simmering time will result in a thicker, more concentrated ketchup.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Yes! Fresh tomatoes and spices will give your ketchup a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

• What can I do if the recipe turns out too sweet or too salty?
  Adjust the sweetness by adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt. For saltiness, add a bit more honey or sweetener.

• How do I make it last longer?
  Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients to make larger batches and portion into single-serve containers.

• Is this recipe suitable for canning?
  Yes, as long as you follow safe canning practices to ensure proper sterilization and sealing.

Serving Suggestions

• Traditional Uses: Perfect as a dip for fries, burgers, or chicken nuggets.
• Creative Applications: Use as a marinade for BBQ ribs, a topping for scrambled eggs, or a base for homemade BBQ sauce.

Conclusion

This homemade single-serve ketchup recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic Heinz flavor but wants a healthier, more customizable option. With its fresh ingredients, reduced sugar, and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Plus, the single-serve packets are perfect for on-the-go meals or meal prep.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own condiments at home. Don’t forget to share your homemade ketchup creations with friends and family—they’re sure to love it!