Ingredients
- 4 pounds tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- ¼ cup unsweetened apple juice
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (Optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- ½ cup lemon juice
What Makes This Recipe Special
This homemade version is bursting with fresh, natural flavors and contains no artificial preservatives or additives. It’s a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought options, made with organic ingredients you can trust.
Tips For Perfect Results
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Simmer the sauce slowly to develop a rich, deep taste.
- Stir frequently to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning.
- Simmer the sauce slowly to develop a rich, deep taste.
- Stir frequently to prevent the mixture from sticking or burning.
Step 1
Tos the tomatoes, onion, garlic, apple juice, and a pinch of cayenne pepper into a large pot. Bring everything up to a boil. Meanwhile, put the bay leaf, cloves, celery seed, and peppercorns into a spice bag or wrap them tightly in some cheesecloth. Drop the spice bundle into the pot and keep boiling, stirring every now and then, until the mixture has reduced by about half.
Step 2
Once it’s nicely thickened, fish out the spice bag and stir in the lemon juice. Let it bubble away for another 10 minutes, then take the pot off the heat. Pour the catsup into a container with a lid and pop it in the fridge. It’s best to use it within a week, or you can freeze it if you want to save it longer.
Creative Serving Ideas
This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fries, and homemade burgers. It also makes a great dipping sauce for vegetables or a flavorful base for BBQ dishes.
How To Save Leftovers
Store in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing in small portions.
