Homemade Ketchup

Ketchup is a fundamental, essential food. At least in my world it is (can't have fries without it!). And I know it's simple, and something you can easily buy at the store. But let me tell you - this is delicious and so easy to make (in a slow cooker), and extremely cost-effective. Plus, it's just pretty cool. Minimal ingredients, many which you may already have in the house! It does take a while so I recommend making it in the morning, after coffee. This recipe is for "regular" ketchup, but if you want to make it spicy you can!

Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/3 cup white sugar

• 1/4 cup + 2 TBS distilled white vinegar

• 1/2 TSP onion powder

• 1/2 TSP garlic powder

• 3/4 TSP fine kosher or sea salt

• Small pinch of celery salt

• Small pinch of mustard powder

• 1/8 TSP finely ground black pepper

• Small pinch ground cloves

• 1/4 - 1/2 TSP cayenne pepper if you want it spicy. Adjust to your taste!

Instructions

1. Pour the crushed tomatoes into your slow cooker.

2. Swish 1/4 cup water in the emptied can and pour it into the slow cooker.

3. Add the sugar, vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, celery salt, mustard powder, clove, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you're using it).

4. Whisk it all together for about 30 seconds.

5. Cook on low for 12 hours, or until the ketchup is thickened.

6. Give it a quick stir every hour (I set an alarm to alert me so I don't forget!).

7. Once the ketchup is done, add it to a blender and mix for 30 seconds, or until it's completely smooth.

8. Pour the ketchup into a bowl and let it cool.

9. Add salt, pepper, or more cayenne to taste. Then get yourself some crispy fries and enjoy!

• Note: Ketchup will keep (in fridge) up to 3 weeks. Remember, no preservatives in this!