Homemade Keto Ketchup (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, and Sugar-Free)

When you’re following a keto lifestyle, traditional condiments can be sneaky sources of sugar and carbs. Regular store-bought ketchup often contains high-fructose corn syrup or cane sugar, which can add 4–5 grams of sugar per tablespoon. That adds up quickly if you’re enjoying it on burgers, hot dogs, or as part of a BBQ glaze.

Our Homemade Keto Ketchup uses Keystone Pantry Brown Sugar Allulose instead of sugar, making it naturally low-carb, sugar-free, and gluten-free—with less than 1 net carb per tablespoon. You get all the tangy-sweet flavor of classic ketchup without the blood sugar spike.

Why These Ingredients Work for Keto

• Tomato Paste (No Sugar Added) – Tomatoes provide the base flavor and natural sweetness. We use unsweetened tomato paste to control carbs and avoid hidden sugars.

• Water – Thins the paste into a ketchup-like consistency. You can adjust the thickness to your preference.

• Keystone Pantry Brown Sugar Allulose – This is the real game-changer. Allulose is a rare natural sugar that tastes and behaves like sugar but is not metabolized as carbs. It caramelizes like brown sugar, giving the ketchup depth, sweetness, and body—without raising blood sugar or insulin levels.

• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tang and brightness, mimicking the “zing” of classic ketchup. ACV also brings potential health benefits for digestion and blood sugar control.

• Onion & Garlic Powder – Create the savory base notes of ketchup while keeping it keto and gluten-free.

• Smoked Paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness and warmth that makes the ketchup taste richer.

• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for balance and flavor.

• Ground Cinnamon (Optional) – Adds a background depth and mild warmth, enhancing complexity.

• Cayenne Pepper (Optional) – For those who like it spicy, cayenne gives a gentle heat that balances the sweetness.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since none of the ingredients contain gluten.

Recipe Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, whisk together the tomato paste and water until smooth.

2. Stir in Keystone Pantry Brown Sugar Allulose, apple cider vinegar, and all spices.

3. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ketchup thickens and flavors meld.

4. Taste and adjust seasonings (add more vinegar for tang, more sweetener for balance, or more cayenne for heat).

5. Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts (per 1 tbsp, makes ~¾ cup or 12 servings)

• Calories: 5

• Total Fat: 0g

• Sodium: 80mg (varies by salt)

• Carbs: 2g (mostly from tomatoes)

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugars: 1.5g (naturally occurring in tomatoes)

• Allulose: 2g (excluded from net carbs)

• Net Carbs: <1g

• Protein: 0g

👉 Thanks to allulose, the carbs in this ketchup are virtually negligible.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Keto Ketchup – Add extra cayenne or a dash of chipotle powder for smoky heat.

• Extra Tangy – Double the apple cider vinegar for a sharper flavor.

• Smoky BBQ Ketchup – Increase smoked paprika and stir in a splash of liquid smoke.

• Fiber-Boosted (Net Negative Carbs) – Mix in acacia fiber powder, psyllium husk, or chicory root inulin to increase fiber content. This reduces net carbs further and may even make the ketchup “net negative,” meaning it provides fiber that offsets the small natural sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this ketchup really keto-friendly?
Yes! With less than 1 net carb per tablespoon, this recipe fits perfectly into keto and low-carb lifestyles.

2. Does it taste like real ketchup?
Absolutely. The combination of tomatoes, vinegar, allulose, and spices delivers the same sweet-tangy balance as store-bought ketchup—but without the sugar.

3. Is it gluten-free?
Yes. All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this safe for both keto and gluten-free diets.

4. How long does homemade ketchup last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts about 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze in small portions.

5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of paste?
Yes! Fresh pureed tomatoes reduce carbs slightly but will create a lighter, fresher-tasting ketchup. Paste delivers the deepest flavor.

6. Can I sweeten this with something other than allulose?
You can, but allulose caramelizes like real sugar, which is why it works so well here. Other keto sweeteners (like stevia or erythritol) may give a slightly different texture or aftertaste.

✨ This Homemade Keto Ketchup is proof that you don’t have to give up your favorite condiments on keto. Sweet, tangy, and versatile—it’s perfect for burgers, dipping, BBQ sauces, and more.