Tomato ketchup isn’t just for topping burgers and fries—it has a range of surprising uses that can add flavor and convenience to your cooking repertoire. Here are eight unexpected ways to use tomato ketchup that are worth trying:
- Spicy Dip Base: Combine ketchup with hot sauce, mustard, and a dash of vinegar for a quick and flavorful spicy dip. It pairs perfectly with fried foods like onion rings, chicken nuggets, or sweet potato fries.
- Umami Booster: Use a small amount of ketchup in dishes like chili, stew, or meat sauce to enhance their depth of flavor. Its rich tomato base and subtle sweetness add complexity to savory dishes.
- Stir-Fry Sauce: Create a sweet and tangy stir-fry sauce by mixing ketchup with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. It adds a unique twist to classic stir-fry recipes and complements both vegetables and proteins.
- Condiment Fusion: Mix ketchup with mayonnaise, mustard, and relish to create a tangy and creamy Thousand Island dressing. Use it as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip for fries and veggies.
- Cocktail Ingredient: Incorporate ketchup into cocktail recipes to add depth and complexity. Use it in Bloody Marys, micheladas, or even a ketchup-infused martini for a unique twist on classic drinks.
- Pizza Crust Glaze: Brush a mixture of ketchup and olive oil onto pizza dough before baking to create a golden and flavorful crust. The ketchup caramelizes in the oven, adding a subtle sweetness and tanginess to each bite.
- BBQ Meatballs: Mix ketchup with brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices to create a sweet and savory glaze for homemade meatballs. Bake or simmer the meatballs in the sauce until they’re tender and coated in flavor.
- Asian-Inspired Marinade: Combine ketchup with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil for a quick and easy Asian-inspired marinade. It works well with chicken, tofu, or vegetables, adding a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
These lesser-known uses for tomato ketchup showcase its versatility in the kitchen, allowing you to get creative with tomato.
