Stuff You Should Know Selects: How Ketchup Works
Jul 17, 2021
Discover the surprising origins of ketchup, tracing back to fermented fish sauce from Southeast Asia. Dive into the evolution of this beloved condiment, highlighting its journey from medicinal use to kitchen staple. Enjoy anecdotes about the quirky octagonal ketchup bottle and a playful debate over condiment preferences, especially the unexpected popularity of mayonnaise. Uncover the etymology of 'ketchup' and 'catsup', and explore modern challenges in food production while laughing at unusual ketchup pairings from around the world.
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Ketchup's Fishy Origins
- The word "ketchup" likely comes from a Chinese or Southeast Asian word for fish sauce.
- This suggests ketchup's origins are far from its modern American image.
British Ketchup Experiments
- Early British ketchup recipes included ingredients like mushrooms, walnuts, and elderberries.
- They sought the "umami" flavor before it was scientifically identified.
Tomato's Poisonous Past
- Tomatoes, native to North America, were initially considered poisonous by colonists.
- Their eventual inclusion in ketchup marked a significant shift in the condiment's history.