Cold Catsup. Mrs. F. E. Blake. Recipe

Title: Cold Catsup Recipe - Mrs. F. E. Blake's Special Recipe

Introduction:
Catsup, or ketchup as it is commonly known today, is a popular condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originally, catsup referred to a wide variety of sauces made from ingredients such as mushrooms, anchovies, and walnuts. However, in this recipe, we will be focusing on Mrs. F. E. Blake's Cold Catsup recipe, which features a delightful combination of tomatoes, horseradish, and spices. This recipe is not only delicious but also allows for a longer shelf life, making it perfect for preserving and enjoying for years to come. So, let's dive into Mrs. F. E. Blake's Cold Catsup recipe!

Recipe:
Ingredients:
- One peck of tomatoes, sliced fine
- Salt (to sprinkle lightly on tomatoes)
- One-half pint grated horseradish
- One large cup of salt
- One and one-half cups of white mustard seed
- One tablespoonful of black pepper
- One quart of finely chopped celery
- One large teacupful of chopped onions
- One and one-half cups of sugar
- One tablespoonful of ground cloves
- One tablespoonful of ground cinnamon
- Three pints of good cider vinegar

Instructions:
1. Slice the tomatoes finely and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them stand for two hours to allow the salt to draw out excess moisture.
2. Once the tomatoes have sat for two hours, rub them through a coarse sieve or colander to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. In a large bowl, combine the tomato pulp with grated horseradish, salt, white mustard seed, black pepper, chopped celery, chopped onions, sugar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and cider vinegar.
4. Mix all the ingredients well until thoroughly combined. Ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Once mixed, the Cold Catsup is ready to use immediately. It can be served alongside a variety of dishes such as sandwiches, fries, burgers, or even as a topping in soups and stews.
Note: If you prefer, you can also can the catsup for long-term preservation. Properly canned, it will keep for years, ensuring a steady supply of delicious Cold Catsup.

Fun Facts:
1. The word "ketchup" is believed to have originated from the Chinese word "kôe-chiap," meaning "brine of fish." This Chinese sauce traveled to the West and was adapted into the condiment we know today.
2. Ketchup was originally more like a liquid, often used as a tonic or medicine, and was even advertised as a remedy for digestion and other ailments.
3. The famous tomato-based ketchup we commonly use today wasn't introduced until the late 18th century.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Traditional Tomato Ketchup: If you prefer a traditional ketchup flavor, you can make a batch using ripe tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, onion, garlic, and a blend of spices such as paprika, mustard, and cinnamon.
2. Fruit Ketchup: Explore the world of unconventional ketchups by trying fruit-based options. Pineapple, mango, and peach ketchups add a unique twist to your classic condiment.
3. Spicy Sriracha Ketchup: Add a kick to your ketchup by mixing in some Sriracha sauce. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their condiments.

Conclusion:
Mrs. F. E. Blake's Cold Catsup recipe is a delightful twist on the classic ketchup condiment. With the perfect blend of tomatoes, horseradish, and spices, this recipe offers a unique and flavorful experience. Whether enjoyed immediately or preserved for years through canning, this Cold Catsup is sure to add a special touch to your meals. So, give this recipe a try and elevate your condiment game to a whole new level!