Condiments

Smoked Rusted Red Ketchup

Author
Smoking Swines
Date
December 13, 2025
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Smoked Rusted Red Ketchup

Creating your own ketchup at home is a total game changer, especially when you add smoke to the mix. This version brings deeper flavor and more character than anything you’ll find on a store shelf. It’s sweet, tangy, and layered with warm spice notes that feel right at home in any BBQ spread.

Using a smoker to finish the sauce adds a natural wood-kissed depth that pairs beautifully with burgers, fries, wings, smoked meatloaf, and even breakfast sandwiches. The smoke doesn’t overpower—it rounds everything out with a mellow, rustic edge.

Even if you don’t have a smoker available, this ketchup still delivers bold flavor with pantry staples and a simple stovetop simmer. But if you do have a smoker fired up, this sauce becomes something special. It’s quick to make, easy to store, and a perfect homemade upgrade to your condiment collection.

Ingredients

  • 1 can 14oz crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 pinch red chili flakes

Instructions

  1. MixAdd tomatoes, vinegar, and honey to a saucepan or cast-iron skillet. Stir to combine.
  2. SeasonAdd smoked paprika, sea salt, garlic granules, onion powder, black pepper, and chili flakes.
  3. SimmerCook over low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  4. SmokePlace the pan in a smoker at 180–200°F. Smoke uncovered for 30–45 minutes for a subtle wood flavor.
  5. FinishCool slightly, then blend smooth if preferred.
  6. StoreKeep refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 10 days.

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