3 Healthy Alternatives to Your Regular Ketchup – Yogic Blogging

Ketchup is something that goes well with most popular dishes be it pakoras, sandwiches, burgers, or pizza.

Who doesn't like the sweet tangy taste of ketchup? Many people consume it on regular basis, some even replace it with curries. Because of its addictive taste ketchup is popular among children. But do you know that most of the store-bought ketchup is loaded with artificial colors, flavors, sugar & unhealthy fats.

You might be unknowingly consuming harmful toxins in the name of taste. Regular intake of ketchup may cause poor skin, acne & spike in your blood sugar levels. Just one teaspoon (9 grams) of ketchup contains 4 g sugar & 90 mg of sodium. 

Most of us consume 3-5 teaspoons in one serving, so you can imagine how much sugar you are putting into your system. If you are serious about your fitness goals it will be best that you stay away from these markets brought ketchup. 

So, are there any healthy alternatives to your regular ketchup? Yes, that’s were homemade healthy chutneys come. We must say it is a gift from India to others. Apart from being a super healthy alternative to ketchup, chutneys can be made instantly & are tasty too. 

There are a variety of chutneys made in India. After a lot of research, I have handpicked 3 healthy chutneys which can be made super quickly with common ingredients that are readily available in our kitchen.

1. Tomato chutney 

Considered as the king of chutneys, tomato chutney has a unique tangy taste that tastes exactly like ketchup. It is a very popular dish made in south India.

The best thing about this chutney is that it can be made super quickly with very little effort. Combine this chutney with dosa, idly, parathas & samosas to take its taste to the next level. You can also apply it on pizzas instead of pizza sauce.

It is prepared with spices such as curry leaves, ginger, garlic & black pepper which ensures faster digestion. You can make it in large quantities & store for the rest of the week. Making freshly ground tomato chutney will give more benefits of tomatoes, as compared to the store-bought ketchup. 

You can even add it to salad dressings to make your salads more interesting.   

                          

2. Coriander chutney 

Coriander chutney made from freshly ground coriander leaves also known as cilantro or dhaniya in India has a refreshing taste & numerous health benefits.  

Coriander being a coolant helps takes out pitta (heat) from your body & relaxes the gut. It also flushes away the toxins & helps maintain good oral health. Apply it in bread or stuff it in sandwiches or subs to add an aromatic flavor. The rich green color of coriander adds texture to your dishes, enhances its taste & makes it tempting. Coriander chutney also goes well with parathas, rotis & samosas. 

You can make it with onion & garlic or without onion & garlic which makes it a good option for Jains & other people who restrict themselves from consuming onion & garlic. The sour flavor of coriander makes it a perfect replacement for your regular ketchup.                   

3. Mint chutney

Mint is also known by the name of pudina, has a fresh minty aroma. Mint chutney is usually made by blending mint leaves, coriander, & lime juice. 

Mint is known for its antioxidant & antibacterial properties. Mint chutney makes a perfect combination with rotis, bread, parathas, dosas, sandwiches, and much more. Mint chutney can make your regular breakfast interesting.

Due to its refreshing taste & the pungent smell is known to enhance the taste of dishes. Like coriander, mint is also cool in nature so consuming its chutney may give you a feeling of satisfaction & a sense of calmness.