Tomato Talk

Ketchup: everyone’s favorite condiment. We all know it, we all love it, but where exactly did its journey to our hamburgers and hot dogs begin? Well, as tomato enthusiasts ourselves, the experts at Red Gold Tomatoes have put together a comprehensive guide to ketchup, giving you the history, the international impact, and the modern innovations to the beloved, slightly sweet, slightly salty sauce.

Origins of Ketchup

Believe it or not, ketchup wasn’t always a staple in every day homes. We know, it’s hard to imagine a time where there weren’t one or two bottles around in the kitchen to use for both simple and complex recipes.

Here is the true story of how our favorite red sauce began.

Early Tomato-Based Condiments

Ketchup, the amazing, flavorful condiment found in kitchens around the world, has a rich and fascinating history that actually spans several centuries, however, the ketchup we know and love today didn't actually even start with tomatoes.

Ketchup’s original story can be found in Asia, where they often used various fermented sauce and condiments in their culinary dishes. While these centuries-old culinary creations weren’t tomato-based, it did lay the foundation for what we would consider “ketchup” in today’s modern age.

Evolution of Ketchup

Now that we understand where ketchup started, let’s take a look at how it evolved through the centuries, eventually becoming what we know and love today.

Introduction of Ketchup in America

The journey from its original culinary use in Asia to how its used now is a long and very interesting road. European explorers took various, new recipes and ingredients back with them on their travels, eventually leading those in America to a new, revolutionary condiment that would shape the lives of tomato lovers forever.

The word ketchup traces its origin to Southern China and speakers of the Southern Min dialect. Around 300 BC, this group used fermented fish paste and soybeans to create a sauce they referred to as “ge-thcup” or “koe-cheup.” The word, “ketchup” wasn’t mentioned until the 18^th century and it still didn’t include tomatoes. The term was simply used to refer to a more complex sauce made of ingredients like walnuts, anchovies, oysters, mussels, lemons, celery, plums, and peaches.

Early American Ketchup Recipes

Into the late 18^th century, tomatoes finally became a large part of the American cuisine, with individuals craving the sweet taste of the fruit and the many ways it could be incorporated into dishes, both hot and cold.

Tomatoes suddenly became the base for other ingredients, including vinegar and spices to create an amazing and flavorful creation that paired with a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes. While every American home seemed to have their own unique recipe and take on “ketchup,” it all incorporated the same, beautiful red fruit: the tomato.

Industrialization and Mass Production

As households got busier and there was less time to create homemade condiments, families and homes opted to purchase their ketchup from the store as a more convenient option. With the growing industrial age, ketchup production began to grow and become a more standardized process. Families, of course, didn’t want to give up the rich taste of ketchup, but could now get it right at their local store.

Ketchup Around the World

While a lot of history surrounding ketchup is focused on America, ketchup actually plays a large role across the world.

Regional Variations of Ketchup

It would appear that each culture has put a unique spin on ketchup, leading to regional variations and adaptations. A few of our favorite examples of this, include India’s spicier version in chutney and Southeast Asia’s soy-based and fish-based ketchups.

Catsup Vs. Ketchup

A question that comes up a lot in actually regarding catsup – what is it and how does it differ from ketchup?

Well, catsup and ketchup are actually the same thing, but have a different spelling. They’re used so interchangeably, it really depends on the linguistic and cultural difference of the person who is saying the word.

Both are correct and both are equally as delicious (in our expert opinion.)

Modern Ketchup Innovations

Finally, we get to the modern age of ketchup – the delicious, family-friendly red sauce we love to pair with anything and everything. From hamburgers on the 4^th of July to hot dogs at baseball games, to French fry platters at home, ketchup is always making itself a part of the family in some way.

Health and Dietary Considerations

While the base of ketchup has remained the same, we have seen a shift in ketchup due to health and dietary restrictions. To become more consumer friendly, many ketchup manufacturers have developed healthier versions, including lower sugar or lower sodium options. This way, we all get to enjoy and indulge in our favorite condiment!

Organic and All-Natural Ketchup

Along with healthier versions of ketchup, we’ve also seen a trend that centers around all-natural and organic ketchup. These options typically are made without artificial additives and preservatives, featuring higher quality and more natural ingredients.

The good news is that whether you purchase our original tomato ketchup, our tomato ketchup with real sugar, or our organic tomato ketchup, you’re still getting the same, delicious taste and all-natural ingredients across all of our Red Gold Tomatoes products.

Artisanal and Gourmet Ketchup

And for those who love a new take on an old classic? Meet the artisanal and gourmet ketchup products that have consumers falling in love with their old favorite condiment. In recent years, there has been an increased demand for newer, fresher flavor takes on traditional ketchup, which is why at Red Gold Tomatoes, we love our Mama Selita’s Jalapeno Ketchup and Huy Fong Sriracha Ketchup!

Red Gold Tomatoes Iconic Premium Quality Ketchup

The history of ketchup is always a fascinating adventure to learn about, since we so often forget that our beloved red ketchup bottle has a past that differs so much to what we love now. But, there is one thing we can agree on – whether it’s spiced with jalapeno, made with real sugar, or in its traditional recipe, ketchup will always be the greatest condiment to ever exist!