Name the first classic American condiments that pop into your mind. To me, those are undeniably ketchup and mustard. They're everywhere and taste great with a number of dishes. The only problem? Most commercial condiments are loaded with artificial ingredients. Not to mention they're almost always packaged in plastic (which isn't exactly good for the environment).
I grew up absolutely loving the super sugary, tomato-based condiment that is ketchup. Now, I’m still infatuated with it. However, I don’t buy overly sweetened ketchup anymore; I only eat ketchup that I’ve made myself. Making ketchup from scratch is cheap, ridiculously easy, healthier, and oh so delicious. I’m even comfortable with claiming that homemade ketchup is just as good as the bottled stuff, if not better (assuming that’s a possibility).
Condiments are as much a part of our fare as the food itself. Condiments include relishes, sauces like ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise or spicy salsas from Mexico, curries from India and Sriracha, the newest of the condiments created in the United States. They accompany served dishes, are usually found on the table with salt and pepper and can be added ingredients in recipes. They are easily made in the kitchen, adding to the variety.