Substitutes for ketchup in cooking include tomato paste, tomato sauce, mayonnaise with tomato paste, pickle relish, salsa, BBQ sauce, vegan tomato relish, and vegan BBQ sauce, each offering unique flavors and textures for marinades, dressings, condiments, and vegan recipes.
Tomato paste mixed with vinegar and sugar can mimic ketchup's flavor as a base for marinades and BBQ sauces. Start with a 1:1 ratio of tomato paste to ketchup, adding vinegar and sugar to taste. It's thicker and has a more concentrated flavor. Brands like Contadina and Muir Glen are recommended.
Tomato sauce can be seasoned to taste like ketchup and used in marinades and glazes. It's thinner than ketchup, so you may need to reduce it or add a thickener. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, seasoned accordingly. Hunt's and Prego offer commonly used options.
A blend of mayonnaise and tomato paste can replace ketchup in dressings and special sauces. The ratio can be adjusted depending on the desired thickness and tomato flavor. Expect a creamier texture. Hellmann's or Best Foods mayonnaise combined with Contadina tomato paste works well.
Pickle relish can substitute for ketchup in dressings where tanginess and sweetness are desired. It offers a chunkier texture and can be used in a roughly 1:1 ratio, depending on taste preferences. Brands such as Vlasic and Heinz are popular choices.
Salsa can be used as a healthier, less sweet substitute for ketchup. It works well with most foods that usually accompany ketchup. The usage ratio can be 1:1. Expect a different flavor profile with more texture from the vegetables in salsa. Popular brands include Tostitos and Pace.
BBQ sauce is a good substitute for those who enjoy a smokier, more complex flavor profile. It's perfect for grilled dishes. Use in a 1:1 ratio, keeping in mind it's typically thicker and more flavorful than ketchup. Brands like Sweet Baby Ray's and Heinz are favorites.
Vegan tomato relish is a suitable ketchup alternative in vegan and vegetarian diets, providing a similar texture and sweetness. Use it in a 1:1 ratio. Brands like Annie's Naturals offer vegan-friendly options.
Vegan BBQ sauce can be used in place of ketchup for those looking for a smoky, vegan-friendly condiment. The ratio is typically 1:1. Look for brands like Annie's Naturals or Stubb's that offer vegan varieties.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Marinades and BBQ | Tomato Paste, Tomato Sauce |
| Sauces and Dressings | Mayonnaise and Tomato Paste, Pickle Relish |
| Condiments and Toppings | Salsa, BBQ Sauce |
| Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes | Vegan Tomato Relish, Vegan BBQ Sauce |
While ketchup is a staple in many kitchens, there are numerous substitutes that can be used across various recipe categories. These alternatives not only provide similar textures and flavors but also offer the opportunity to customize dishes to personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
