Best Tomato Catsup Recipe

+ Directions : Measure spices into small saucepan; add vinegar. Cover; heat to a boil. Remove from heat; let stand while preparing tomato mixture. (Spices steep in vinegar just like tea. It's this separate brewing for spicy flavor that keeps the catsup a rich red color. ) Wash tomatoes. Mash in a large pan. Add onion and red pepper. Heat to a boil; cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Put tomatoes through a food mill or a coarse sieve or colander. Add sugar to the tomato juice. Heat to a boil; then simmer briskly. Cook till you have only half the amount you began with. This should take 45 to 60 minutes. Strain spiced vinegar mixture into tomato mixture; discard spices. Add salt. Simmer about 30 minutes or until desired consistency. Stir often. Fill hot, sterilized jars; seal at once. Makes 2 pints.