INDIAN-STYLE KETCHUP — A SPICY, SWEET, AND TANGY CHUTNEY PERFECT FOR ROASTED SWEET POTATOES

This homemade Indian-style ketchup is a flavorful fusion of spices, sweet tomatoes, and tangy vinegar. My first successful chutney creation pairs beautifully with oven-roasted sweet potato fries, adding a vibrant, exotic twist to a simple dish. The balance of mustard and nigella seeds, ginger, and cumin makes it uniquely delicious and versatile.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 25 min
🍽️ Yields: About 300 ml (3/4 of a 400 ml jar)

Ingredients

1 can (400 g) whole peeled tomatoes
1 tsp nigella seeds (black cumin)
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp freshly grated ginger
3 garlic cloves, crushed
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground fennel
35 g sugar
35 ml vinegar (5–6% acidity)
2 tbsp cooking oil
Salt, to taste
1 small chili pepper, finely chopped (optional, if you want heat)

Instructions

1. Toast the Seeds and Spices

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add mustard seeds and nigella seeds.
Fry until seeds start popping (about 30 seconds).

2. Add Aromatics and Spices

Stir in grated ginger, crushed garlic, finely chopped chili (if using), ground cumin, and ground fennel.
Sauté for 1 minute to release the flavors.

3. Simmer with Vinegar and Sugar

Pour in vinegar and add sugar.
Cook over low heat until sugar dissolves completely.

4. Add Tomatoes and Reduce

Blend canned tomatoes with their juices until smooth.
Add blended tomatoes to the pan and season with salt.
Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to ketchup consistency (about 15–20 minutes).

5. Store and Serve

Let cool, then transfer to a sterilized jar.
Refrigerate and use within 1–2 weeks.

Serving Suggestion

Roast sweet potato fries at 220°C (430°F) for 35 minutes after tossing them in oil, salt, and pepper until lightly browned. Serve hot with this vibrant Indian-style ketchup for a flavorful twist on a classic snack.

💡 Tips

Adjust chili quantity to control spiciness.
Use fresh grated ginger for the best aroma.
Ensure slow simmering to achieve perfect ketchup thickness.
This chutney also pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and samosas.

🎉 Perfect For

Flavorful dipping sauces
Elevating simple roasted vegetables
Indian-inspired condiments for snacks and meals
Homemade gifts in jars

📝 Final Thoughts

This Indian-style ketchup combines aromatic spices with tangy sweetness, creating a unique chutney that livens up roasted sweet potatoes and countless other dishes. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, it’s a delightful condiment for your kitchen repertoire.