Ketchup, also known as tomato sauce, is a popular and versatile condiment enjoyed around the globe. It has a smooth, flowing consistency, vibrant reddish color, and a flavor profile that is a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and savory notes. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a certain period.

The primary ingredient of ketchup is ripe, juicy tomatoes, which have been cooked down and pureed. This tomato base is then seasoned with a variety of ingredients such as sugar, vinegar, salt, and an array of spices like onion, garlic, and cloves, and then simmered until it thickens. The result is a sauce that offers the perfect complement to numerous foods and dishes.

Ketchup is best known for its role as a key accompaniment to fast foods like fries, burgers, and hot dogs. However, it's also used as a base for barbecue sauces, a marinade for meats, a glazing ingredient, or even a secret ingredient in stews, soups, and other hearty dishes. Whether you're a novice cook or an experienced chef, having ketchup in your pantry can open up a world of flavor combinations.

Ketchup is typically found in the condiment aisle of a grocery store. It is usually near other items such as mustard, mayonnaise, salad dressings, and pickles.