Ingredients

  • 6 pounds very ripe tomatoes, peeled and seeded with juices reserved
  • 1 onion
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 6 peppercorns
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 celery heart, with leaves
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cider or raspberry vinegar
  • Salt
  • Large non-aluminum kettle
  • Food mill

Method

  • Coarsely chop the tomatoes and place them in the kettle with the reserved juice.
  • Stud the onion with the cloves and tie it in a double layer of dampened cheesecloth along with the allspice, peppercorns, and rosemary.
  • Add the cheesecloth bag, celery heart, brown sugar, vinegar and a little salt to the tomatoes and bring to a boil, stirring from time to time, over high heat.
  • Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until reduced by half.
  • Puree the ketchup in a food mill and taste for seasoning.
  • Return the ketchup to the kettle and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Immediately pour the ketchup into sterilized jars and seal according to manufacturer's directions.