Rosemary Ketchup Easy, Thick, and Low Sugar

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This homemade rosemary ketchup is easier to make than you might think. It is a clean and flavorful alternative to store-bought versions. Tomato paste gives it a rich depth and its thickness. This version also avoids excess sugar, oil and

Post Date: April 14, 2025
Posted by: Donna Spencer

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preservatives. Infused with fragrant rosemary, it delivers a bold, savory taste using simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy this healthier, fresher condiment that promises to enhance your favorite dishes with pure, homemade goodness.

Most store-bought ketchup contain added sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, preservatives, and artificial flavors. While most store-bought ketchup taste familiar, they often come with unnecessary ingredients. These can overpower the natural flavor of tomatoes. When you make your own ketchup at home, you can control the sweetness and sodium. You can also add flavor depth with other herbs. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up in just a few minutes!

Unlike traditional ketchup made with fresh tomatoes, this recipe uses tomato paste, which naturally provides a thick, rich base. Simmer the ketchup with rosemary, vinegar, and a touch of natural sweetness. This enhances the flavor and keeps it clean and simple. The result is a perfectly thick ketchup. It is tangy with a hint of earthiness from the rosemary. It’s ideal for spreading, dipping, and drizzling over your favorite dishes.

This ketchup pairs beautifully with everything from crispy oven-baked potatoes and my beet black bean burgers or beet mushroom burgers. Use it as a dipping sauce, a spread, or even a marinade base for added depth of flavor.

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to two weeks. Though it’s so delicious, it probably won’t last that long!

Give this homemade version a try, and you may never go back to store-bought ketchup again.

Grocery List

Produce

Pantry

tomato sauce no salt
tomato paste no salt
water
apple cider vinegar
pure maple
fresh rosemary
onion powder
garlic powder
smoked paprika
salt
pepper

Misc

Add-Ins and Substitutions

Once your ketchup is made, you can add a twist to your liking, and the variations are endless. I have listed a few to get you thinking:

  • Rosemary-Garlic Ketchup – Add minced or roasted garlic for depth.
  • Rosemary-Thyme Ketchup  – Layer in a little dried thyme with the rosemary to bring out a more complex herbal note.
  • Rosemary-Balsamic Ketchup – Stir in a splash of aged balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tart kick that pairs beautifully with rosemary.
  • Smoky Rosemary Ketchup – Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. It gives it a rich, campfire vibe. This is great for grilled dishes.
  • Rosemary-Orange Ketchup – Zest a bit of orange peel. Alternatively, add a few drops of fresh orange juice for a citrusy lift.
  • Lemon-Rosemary Ketchup – A bit of lemon juice or zest adds brightness. It pairs especially well with baked tofu or roasted potatoes.
  • Spicy Rosemary Ketchup – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use cayenne or a spoon of harissa. These ingredients give a warm, herby heat.
  • Chipotle-Rosemary Ketchup – Blend in some chipotle in adobo for a smoky, spicy variation with a Southwestern flair.
  • Maple-Rosemary Ketchup – Add a dash of maple syrup for sweetness. It works really well with roasted root veggies or tempeh.

Storing

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 weeks.

Nutrition 411

Tomatoes are low in carbs. The carb content consists mainly of simple sugars and insoluble fibers. These fruits are mostly made up of water. They are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K, and folate. The lycopene in tomatoes is one of the most abundant plant compounds in tomatoes. It’s found in the highest concentrations in tomato products, such as ketchup, juice, paste, and sauce. Studies show that tomatoes and tomato products may reduce your risk of heart disease and several cancers. This fruit is also beneficial for skin health, as it may protect against sunburns. (Trusted source.)

Rosemary is a powerhouse herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping protect cells from damage and supporting overall health. It may enhance memory. It can improve cognitive function. It also protects against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s by promoting circulation and reducing oxidative stress. Rosemary also aids digestion by stimulating enzymes and reducing bloating, making it a natural remedy for gut health. With antimicrobial and heart-supporting benefits, it strengthens immunity, improves circulation, and helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol. Enjoy its health perks by incorporating it into homemade condiments. Elevate your meals with its earthy, aromatic taste. Add it for a flavorful, nutritious boost.

Homemade Rosemary Ketchup

Donna Spencer
Homemade Rosemary Ketchup is a clean, flavorful alternative to store-bought versions, made with tomato paste and sauce for rich depth without excess sugar (high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar or corn syrup), oil, or preservatives. Infused with fragrant rosemary, it delivers a bold, savory taste using simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy a healthier, fresher condiment that enhances your favorite dishes with pure, homemade goodness.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Dinner, ingredient, Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings servings
Calories

Equipment

  • Medium sauce pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce no-salt or low-sodium
  • 6 oz can tomato paste no-salt
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup agave, or date paste
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary or 2 teaspoons dried rosemary adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • pinch salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (or date paste) over medium heat. Stir well to combine.
  • Add the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chopped rosemary to the saucepan. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the ketchup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
  • Allow the ketchup to cool completely before transferring it to a glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Keyword anti-inflammatory, condiment, ketchup, rosemary

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