There’s something about ketchup that just makes meals feel complete, right? When I started the SCD (Specific Carbohydrate Diet), I thought I’d have to give up this family favorite.
Most store-bought versions are full of ingredients that aren’t SCD-friendly, like refined sugar and starches. So, I took matters into my own hands and came up with this SCD Legal Ketchup Recipe that’s rich, tangy, and naturally sweetened with honey.
It’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since — and my family can’t tell the difference from regular ketchup. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for dipping, topping, or mixing into your favorite dishes.
How To Make SCD Legal Ketchup Recipe At Home Fast
This SCD Legal Ketchup Recipe is smooth, flavorful, and made with wholesome ingredients like strained tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Condiment/Sauce
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Yield: About 1½ cups
- Calories Per Serving: ~15 per tablespoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups strained tomatoes (no additives, SCD-legal
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (SCD-legal)
- ½ cup apple juice (no added sugar)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
Ingredient Notes
- Strained Tomatoes: I use a brand without any sugar or preservatives — it keeps the ketchup SCD-friendly.
- Honey: Not only adds sweetness but also gives a smooth finish.
- Cloves: Just a pinch gives that signature ketchup warmth. Don’t skip it!
Instructions
- Combine the base: In a medium saucepan, add strained tomatoes, tomato paste, and apple juice. Stir until smooth.
- Add flavor: Mix in apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, cloves, and salt.
- Cook it down: Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir often so it doesn’t stick.
- Thicken: Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until slightly thickened. The flavors will deepen as it cooks.
- Adjust to taste: Taste and add more honey or vinegar if you prefer sweeter or tangier ketchup.
- Blend for smoothness (optional): Use an immersion blender for a silky texture.
Cool and store: Let it cool completely before transferring to a clean glass jar. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
My Story With The SCD Diet
When I first started the SCD, my kitchen felt like a minefield. So many everyday items — including ketchup — were off-limits.
At first, I tried doing without it, but I quickly realized how much I missed the flavor in my meatloaf, burgers, and even scrambled eggs. This recipe came from a few rounds of trial and error, adjusting sweetness and tang until it tasted just like the ketchup I grew up with.
Now, it’s one of those sauces I make in batches because we go through it fast.
Why Make Your Own Ketchup?
- You control the ingredients — no corn syrup, no preservatives.
- It tastes fresher and more balanced.
- You can tweak sweetness, tang, and spice to suit your taste.
Tips From My Kitchen
- Don’t rush the simmer: The slow cook is where the flavor magic happens.
- Use a non-reactive pan (like stainless steel) so the vinegar doesn’t react with the metal.
- Cool completely before storing to avoid condensation in the jar.
- Make it in double batches — it keeps well in the fridge, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Pairing & Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with SCD-friendly chicken nuggets or burgers.
- Spread on a lettuce-wrapped sandwich.
- Stir into SCD-legal barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Variations
- Spicy Ketchup: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Herbed Ketchup: Stir in dried oregano or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Sweet: Increase honey by 1 tablespoon for a kid-friendly version.
FAQs
Can I Freeze SCD Ketchup?
Yes, freeze in small airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Can I Make This Without Honey?
You can use SCD-legal fruit puree like date paste, but the flavor will be slightly different.
How Long Does Homemade SCD Ketchup Last In The Fridge?
Up to 3 weeks in a sealed glass jar.
Is Store-Bought Tomato Paste SCD Legal?
Only if it contains just tomatoes — no sugar, starch, or additives. Always read the label.
Can I Skip The Cloves?
You can, but they add a warm depth to the flavor that really makes it taste like classic ketchup.
Simple SCD Legal Ketchup Recipe For Everyday Meals
Ingredients
- 2 cups strained tomatoes (no additives SCD-legal
- 2 tbsp tomato paste SCD-legal
- ½ cup apple juice no added sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp honey adjust to taste
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Combine the base: In a medium saucepan, add strained tomatoes, tomato paste, and apple juice. Stir until smooth.
- Add flavor: Mix in apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, cloves, and salt.
- Cook it down: Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir often so it doesn’t stick.
- Thicken: Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until slightly thickened. The flavors will deepen as it cooks.
- Adjust to taste: Taste and add more honey or vinegar if you prefer sweeter or tangier ketchup.
- Blend for smoothness (optional): Use an immersion blender for a silky texture.
- Cool and store: Let it cool completely before transferring to a clean glass jar. Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
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