Tomato Sauce Or Ketchup? Know The Difference To Pick The Right One

Tomatoes are one of those foods that have a love-hate relationship with people. While some simply cannot stand the idea of tomatoes in their meals, others find ways to flavour their food by relying on condiments such as tomato ketchup and sauce. Do you also love to pair your fast food and Italian dishes with them? Do you get confused between tomato ketchup and tomato sauce? Oftentimes, we use these terms interchangeably without realising the differences that exist between them. We’ve also been in situations where we’ve asked someone to pass us tomato ketchup or sauce without knowing which is the correct term to use. Haven’t we? It’s true that they are both condiments, but if you take a closer look, you’ll find a noticeable difference between them. 

What Are Tomato Sauce And Ketchup Used For:

Tomato sauce and tomato ketchup are both popular condiments that we use on a daily basis. The former is used for flavouring main course dishes such as pasta and pizza, and is often made fresh to be used in the dishes. Tomato ketchup is a commercially used product and is commonly served alongside fast foods such as burgers, French fries, and chicken nuggets. Ketchup is also served with sandwiches and a variety of savoury Indian snacks.
Also Read: Sparkling Water Vs. Club Soda: What Lies Beneath The Bubbles

Photo Credit: Istock

Tomato Sauce Vs Tomato Ketchup: 5 Key Differences Between The Two:

1. Sugar Content

One of the major differences between tomato sauce and tomato ketchup lies in the sugar content. Tomato sauces are made using tomatoes alone, along with some spices, and have absolutely no sugar in them. Ketchup, on the other hand, cannot be made without sugar, which is a key ingredient in it. So, if you find yourself confused about differentiating between the two, this is an easy way to tell them apart.

2. Texture

Tomato sauces are a lot thicker in texture as compared to tomato ketchup. You’ll often even find chunks of tomatoes or other ingredients in a sauce. Ketchup has a smoother consistency and has absolutely no chunks in it. This smooth texture of ketchup is due to the fact that it takes a longer time to cook.

3. Production

The production processes of both of these condiments also differ to a great extent. While tomato sauce can easily be made at home, tomato ketchup is produced artificially. It contains synthetic substances and sweeteners that help prolong its shelf life. Both of them require long cooking hours, but the fact that you can make fresh tomato sauce at home is what gives it the upper hand.
Also Read: Food Allergy Or Food Intolerance? How To Tell The Difference And Protect Your Health

4. Colour

The difference in colour is another easy way to differentiate between tomato sauce and ketchup. If it seems bright red in colour, then that’s most likely tomato ketchup. And if it seems to be light red and not that thick in texture, that’s a good sign it’s tomato sauce. So now you know exactly what to look out for. 

5. Acidity Level

Another major point of difference between the two is their acidity level. Tomato ketchup contains vinegar, which gives it a slightly tangy kick of flavour. On the other hand, tomato sauce doesn’t contain any vinegar and naturally has a low acid level. It is much more subtle in taste as compared to ketchup.

Now that you’re aware of these differences, you’ll be able to tell them exactly what sets them apart with ease. Enjoy both of these condiments the right way!