What's the Best Substitute for Ketchup?
Whether you're out of Ketchup or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet and tangy tomato-based condiment with thick consistency, used as a topping and in cooking In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for ketchup are tomato paste, barbecue sauce, or other tomato-based sauces like marinara or tomato sauce, depending on the use.
Best Substitutes for Ketchup
Tomato Paste + Sugar + Vinegar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking and baking
- when you want to control sweetness
- making large batches
- customizing flavor
Description
Homemade ketchup using concentrated tomato paste
Mix 1 part tomato paste with 1 part water, 1-2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar, and salt to taste. Simmer until thickened. Adjust sweetness and acidity to your preference.
Barbecue Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled meats
- barbecue dishes
- when you want smoky flavor
- marinades and glazes
Description
Sweet and tangy sauce with smoky, complex flavors
Has similar sweet-tangy profile but with added smokiness and spices. May be thinner than ketchup. Works well for meat dishes and grilling applications.
Marinara Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta dishes
- pizza sauce
- when you want Italian flavors
- cooking applications
Description
Italian tomato sauce with herbs and garlic
Thinner than ketchup and has Italian herbs (oregano, basil). Add sugar and vinegar to make it more ketchup-like. Best for cooking rather than as a condiment.
Tomato Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking applications
- when you want neutral tomato flavor
- making homemade ketchup
- pasta dishes
Description
Plain tomato sauce without added seasonings
Much thinner than ketchup and lacks sweetness. Add sugar, vinegar, and spices to make it more ketchup-like. Reduce by simmering to thicken if needed.
Sriracha
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- when you want heat
- Asian-inspired dishes
- spicy condiments
- dipping sauces
Description
Spicy chili sauce with garlic and vinegar
Much spicier than ketchup with garlic and vinegar notes. Add sugar to make it sweeter. Works well for those who like spicy condiments.
Hot Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- when you want heat without sweetness
- spicy condiments
- dipping sauces
- marinades
Description
Spicy vinegar-based sauce with heat
Much thinner and spicier than ketchup. Add sugar and tomato paste to make it more ketchup-like. Choose milder varieties if you want less heat.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Ketchup, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Ketchup adds sweet and tangy flavor to dishes - perfect for balancing spicy or salty foods
Use ketchup in meatloaf, meatballs, and burgers for moisture and flavor
Mix ketchup with mayonnaise for a quick thousand island dressing
Add ketchup to barbecue sauce for extra tang and sweetness
Ketchup works well in baked beans, sloppy joes, and chili
Store ketchup in the refrigerator after opening for up to 6 months
Shake the bottle before using to mix any separated ingredients
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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