Banana Ketchup Recipe With No Tomato - A Flavorful Twist

Introduction

Banana ketchup, a beloved Filipino condiment, offers a delightful twist on the classic ketchup experience. Unlike traditional tomato ketchup, this version contains no tomatoes at all.

Instead, it uses the natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with vinegar and spices to create a condiment that’s sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once. Perfect for anyone looking for a tomato-free version of ketchup, banana ketchup is incredibly versatile and easy to make at home.

In this article, we’ll share the step-by-step guide to making banana ketchup, and how it can add a unique flavor to your dishes.

What is Banana Ketchup?

Banana ketchup was born in the Philippines during World War II, when tomatoes were in short supply but bananas were abundant. This led to the creation of a unique and vibrant condiment that mimics traditional ketchup but adds a tropical twist.

Despite its name, banana ketchup has the same sweet and tangy flavor as tomato ketchup, making it a great substitute for your everyday meals. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Banana Ketchup Recipe With No Tomato

Here’s the full recipe for making banana ketchup with no tomato:

Banana Ketchup

A sweet and tangy Filipino banana ketchup recipe without any tomatoes. Perfect for fries, fried chicken, or any of your favorite dishes.

Prep Time

PT10M

Cook Time

PT20M

Total Time

PT30M

Yield

2 cups

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh chopped ginger
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add the mashed bananas to the pan and stir to combine.
4. Next, add the vinegar, molasses, turmeric, cloves, coconut aminos, salt, and water. Stir well.
5. Cook the mixture for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. Blend the mixture using a food processor or immersion blender until it reaches a smooth consistency.
8. Transfer to a jar and allow it to cool before serving.

Best Bananas for Making Banana Ketchup

To make the perfect banana ketchup, it’s important to use ripe bananas, as they provide the sweetness necessary for the ketchup's flavor. Plantains are commonly used, but you can also use other ripe varieties like Cavendish or Lakatan for an equally delightful taste. Ripe bananas give the ketchup a better texture and depth of flavor, making it truly reminiscent of the Filipino original.

How to Serve Banana Ketchup

Banana ketchup is a very versatile condiment that can be used in a wide variety of dishes:

• As a dip: Serve it with French fries, fried chicken, hot dogs, or grilled vegetables.
• As a marinade: You can also use it as a marinade for chicken wings, pork, or even seafood. It adds a delicious, tangy flavor that elevates any dish.
• In sandwiches and burgers: Just like classic ketchup, banana ketchup works well with burgers, sandwiches, or as a topping for scrambled eggs.
• For braising: Adding banana ketchup as part of your braising liquid can bring an extra layer of flavor to dishes like Filipino adobo.

Tips for Making Banana Ketchup Without Tomato

• Use very ripe bananas: The ripeness of the bananas will affect the taste of your ketchup. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more complex the flavor.
• Add spice to your liking: If you prefer a spicier ketchup, consider adding bird's eye chili or another hot pepper.
• Adjust the texture: If your banana ketchup turns out too thick, add more water until you reach the desired consistency.

Benefits of Banana Ketchup

Apart from being a great alternative for those with tomato allergies, banana ketchup offers numerous health benefits. Bananas contain potassium, which is good for heart health, and the inclusion of vinegar helps extend its shelf life while adding a nice tang to the flavor.

Conclusion

Banana ketchup without tomatoes is a unique and delicious condiment that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dip, a marinade, or as a topping for your burgers, this tomato-free alternative will surprise you with its versatility. Easy to make at home with just a few ingredients, it’s time to bring this Filipino classic into your kitchen and share it with family and friends.