What would you do with ketchup if it didn’t exist?

The answer depends on what you mean by “anything”: sweet, sour, spicy, or creamy.

Tomato-based alternatives

Australian/British tomato relish: A thick, chunky tomato relish with onions, perfect for burgers and fries.

Homemade tomato chutney: A thick sauce made with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.

Marinara or passata concentrate: A quick way to achieve classic ketchup flavor by blending it with a little vinegar, honey, and garlic powder.

Hot sauces

Sriracha: A spicy, garlicky chili sauce that makes an excellent ketchup substitute in fast food dishes.

Gochujang paste (or sauce): A fermented Korean chili paste that adds a sweet, salty, and complex umami flavor to dishes.

Ajvar: A silky, smoky relish made from roasted black-eyed peas and eggplant.

Creamy and tangy dressings

BBQ sauce: Adds a more intense, caramelized flavor with smoky notes, brown sugar, and molasses.

Lemon/vinegar mayonnaise: Provides a creamy texture and the necessary acidity.

Spicy sour cream or yogurt dressing: A refreshing alternative with garlic, red pepper, and a splash of vinegar.

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