Tomato sauce and ketchup are oftentimes confused with one other due to some shared ingredients, like tomatoes, vinegar, and sugar, but beyond that, they are fundamentally different and should not be used interchangeably. Ketchup is primarily used as an accompaniment to a dish, while tomato sauce is the base for creating a variety of Italian-inspired meals. And while many people assume that all tomato sauce is the same, the truth is that a variety of recipes for tomato sauce exist, and can be crafted to suit a wide variety of dishes, flavors, and menus.
So, what makes tomato sauce and ketchup different? To begin with, tomato sauces tend to a have a thinner, more liquid consistency than ketchup. Ketchup usually contains additional ingredients, like additional spices and even fruits like peaches or apples, to add a unique and unmistakable flavor profile that is absent from regular tomato sauce. Its texture is thicker and almost paste-like. Ketchup also often contains far more sugar and starches than tomato sauce to give it its sweetness. Tomato sauce, on the other hand, often includes the addition of plentiful herbs and spices, like oregano, basil, garlic, and black pepper.
Ben McAvoy, a chef in Chicago, is a huge proponent of tomato sauces. He notes that they add a depth and complexity to the dishes that ketchup is unable to contribute. He firmly believes that tomato sauce is not just a layer of red cover for a dish, but an ingredient with depth and subtle flavor nuances that can make a dish come to life. He also notes that it takes significantly less time to put together a tomato sauce than it does to make a ketchup from scratch.
McCavoy points out other advantages to tomato sauce. Not only can it be used as a base for countless dishes, it can also be cooked down for even more intensifying flavors. Additionally, tomato sauce is very versatile a classic red sauce will work for a range of dishes, and can easily be customized with the addition of bacon, pork, beef, mushrooms, and other flavorful ingredients. It also adapts well to vegan and vegetarian diets for just as savory dishes. These advantages are part of the reason why tomato sauce has been so beloved for centuries.
Nutrition
Nutritionally speaking, tomato sauce is far more beneficial than ketchup. Tomato sauce provides a wider variety of vitamins and minerals- Vitamin A, IU, Vitamin C, phosphorus, and iron- that may not be present in ketchup. Furthermore, it can also provide antioxidants like lycopene, which are not available in ketchup. Tomato sauce also has significantly more fiber and protein than ketchup. Ketchup has far more sodium and sugar. All these health advantages cheer for tomato sauce when compared to ketchup.
Getting Started
Tomato sauces can be bought in almost any store- supermarkets, online, or regional suppliers- in many varieties. Most brands will offer classic red sauces, along with options like green, pink, and spicy tomato sauces. People should try to find a tomato sauce with few additional additives and a natural taste. Additionally, chefs and home cooks alike should experiment with making their own tomato sauces. It is a straightforward and simple process with limited ingredients.
Preparation
Pre-made tomato sauces are convenient, but for the best flavor, fresh tomato sauce will provide the best results. People should begin by selecting the best tomatoes available. A perfect sauce begins with the best ingredients, like vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh garlic, basil, and oregano if desired. Once all the ingredients have been selected, cooks should start by sautéing the garlic in oil. After a few minutes, the tomatoes should be added, before stirring and simmering to mix the flavors together. As a result, cooks can then add seasonings according to taste. The sauce should be simmered and stirred until a nice thick consistency is reached.
Storage
Tomato sauce kept in a cool and dry environment can be stored for up to two weeks. However, cooked tomato sauce is best when used within a few days, or frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. People can freeze sauces in various sizes- for single servings or larger batches, depending on how the sauce will be used.
Uses
Tomato sauce is a great addition to both Italian and non-Italian dishes, like pizzas, lasagnas, and casseroles. People can also use it as a flavour enhancer for soups, stews, and sauces. Tomatoes sauces can also be used as a dip for chips and vegetables. Additionally, tomato sauces can be used to make popular dishes like shakshouka, chili con carne, and bolognese. It can even be used for desserts like ice cream toppings, puddings, and cakes.
Conclusion
Ketchup has its place in the kitchen, but for a robust, flavourful, nutritious alternative, chefs can rely on tomato sauce. With its countless uses, versatility, and short preparation time, tomato sauce is a great-tasting substitution for ketchup and an excellent addition to both savory and sweet recipes.
