Common Catsup. Mrs. F. E. Blake. Recipe

Common Catsup, also known as ketchup, is a popular condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries. This versatile sauce is not only delicious but also packed with flavor. In this recipe by Mrs. F. E. Blake, we will be making a homemade version of Common Catsup that is simple to prepare and bursting with natural tomato goodness.

Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a moment to explore the history of Common Catsup. Ketchup originated in China and was originally a fish sauce called "ke-tsiap". It made its way to Europe in the 17th century, where it underwent numerous transformations to suit different palates.

Now, let's get started on making this delightful Common Catsup!

Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of tomatoes, cut up (skins included)
- 1 tablespoonful of salt
- 1 tablespoonful of pepper
- 1 tablespoonful of cinnamon
- 1 quart of good cider vinegar

Directions:

1. Begin by cutting up the tomatoes, including the skins. These skins add texture and flavor to the catsup.
2. Place the cut-up tomatoes in a large saucepan and cook them thoroughly over medium heat. Allow the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to develop.
3. Once cooked, let the tomatoes cool down before proceeding to the next step.
4. Once the tomatoes are cool, pass them through a sieve to remove any seeds or large lumps. This step ensures a smooth and consistent texture for the catsup.
5. Transfer the sieved tomato juice into a large pot or saucepan.
6. Add the tablespoonful of salt, pepper, and cinnamon to the tomato juice. These spices will enhance the flavors of the catsup and give it a unique taste.
7. Pour in the quart of good cider vinegar. The vinegar adds tanginess and acts as a natural preservative for the catsup.
8. Place the pot or saucepan over low heat and cook the mixture until it thickens. This process may take some time, so be patient and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
9. Once the catsup reaches a desired thickness, remove it from the heat and let it cool down.
10. When completely cool, transfer the catsup into sterilized bottles or jars, ensuring they are sealed tightly.
11. Store the Common Catsup in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator.

Now, you have a delicious homemade Common Catsup that can be enjoyed with a wide variety of dishes! This catsup can be used as a dip, a condiment for burgers and sandwiches, or a flavor enhancer in your favorite recipes.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the spelling of "ketchup" as "catsup" emerged back in the late 17th century? While both spellings are correct, "ketchup" is more commonly used today.

Similar recipe dishes:

1. Homemade Barbecue Sauce: By adding additional spices like paprika, garlic, and brown sugar to the Common Catsup recipe, you can create a tangy and smoky homemade barbecue sauce.

2. Spicy Tomato Chutney: Add chopped onions, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes to the catsup recipe for a delicious and fiery tomato chutney that pairs well with Indian dishes.

3. Sweet and Tangy Cocktail Sauce: Mix the catsup with horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of hot sauce for a flavorful cocktail sauce that complements seafood dishes like shrimp and oysters.

Remember, homemade catsup gives you the freedom to adjust the flavors to your liking. So, feel free to experiment with additional spices and ingredients to create your personalized version. Enjoy your homemade Common Catsup!