Step 1

First, heat the oil in a medium sized pot and add the onion and peppers (if using). Cook them down about 5 minutes to soften them up.

Step 2

Add the garlic and cook for a minute, stirring a bit, until you can smell that gorgeous garlic.

Step 3

Add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, cider vinegar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground mustard, cloves, allspice, black pepper and salt to taste. Give it a nice stir.

Step 4

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes (or up to 1 hour/60 minutes) to let the flavors meld and develop.

Step 5

Puree the mixture with a stick blender, or transfer it to a blender or food processor and process it in batches until nice and smooth.

Step 6

Strain the ketchup through a fine mesh sieve to give it a nice, smooth texture. Discard the remaining solids.

Step 7

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator and use as needed.