Ketchup

Tomato ketchup, also known simply as ketchup or tomato sauce, is a thick and sweet sauce made primarily from ripe tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and a blend of spices. It is one of the most popular condiments in world cuisine and is used to enhance the flavor of various recipes, especially in dishes like hamburgers, french fries, meats, and sandwiches.

Its origin dates back to ancient Asian recipes, where fermented fish or soy sauces called kê-tsiap were prepared. The tomato version we know today was developed in the United States in the 19th century and quickly became popular worldwide.

In terms of properties, tomato ketchup provides antioxidants from lycopene, present in tomatoes, a compound beneficial for cardiovascular health and cellular protection. However, it contains sugars and sodium, so its consumption should be moderate within a balanced diet.

In different Latin American countries, ketchup may be known by other common names such as tomato sauce, ketchup, or simply red sauce, although the latter term can vary by region and type of sauce. It is important not to confuse it with natural tomato sauce or tomato purée, which do not contain added sugars or spices.