As a food enthusiast, I have a soft spot for flavors that remind me of simpler times—like summer barbecues and road trips with family. One of those cherished flavors comes from Whataburger ketchup sauce.
Before diving in, gather together all the ingredients listed above. This makes the process smoother. Having everything ready will set you up for success!
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the tomato concentrate with the filtered water. Stir until you achieve a smooth mixture.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Next, add smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, cayenne chili powder, onion powder, and garlic granules to the bowl. This is where the magic happens! Each spice adds its unique weight to the sauce’s profile.
Step 4: Sweeten the Deal
Incorporate the honey, giving the sauce its signature sweetness. Stir well until you can’t see any clumps.
Step 5: Introduce the Vinegar
Now, add the white distilled vinegar. This ingredient will provide that tangy element that brightens the sauce. Give it another good stir.
Step 6: Heat Things Up
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the entire mixture and throw in the finely chopped jalapeño pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This will marry all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Once the sauce has cooled, pour it into a clean, airtight container. This sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Notes
Creating your own Whataburger ketchup sauce can be a fun experience. Here are a few tips to enhance the process:
Experiment with Spice Levels: If you like it hot, up the cayenne or throw in a dash of chili flakes.
Adjust Sweetness: Add more honey based on your preference for sweetness.
Add Fresh Herbs: Consider incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro for a refreshing twist.
Use Fresh Tomatoes: For a garden-fresh flavor, replace the concentrate with blended fresh tomatoes.
Customize Dipping Options: Make sure to try it with various items. It’s amazing on mozzarella sticks!