Why Ketchup on Steak Is Actually Delicious
Elles admits it, gladly. ‘Yes, I do it. I dip my steak in ketchup. Controversial, I know. There are all these people who hate ketchup. But that sweet, savory contrast is delicious. So let’s set the record straight: ketchup on your steak isn’t a crime, it’s simply a matter of taste. And if you dare to put your culinary superiority aside, you’ll agree with me after all: it’s damn delicious!’
Ketchup: the culinary taboo no one talks about
‘Ketchup. For some people, it’s the holy grail of sauces; for others, it’s the worst decision you can ever make, even when you put it with your fries. But why is everyone suddenly so obsessed with what I do or don’t do with my ketchup? Why can’t I dip steak in ketchup if I feel like it? Why should I have to follow your gastronomic rules when it simply tastes good?
As if you’re committing a crime
You have people who are so “culinarily certified” that they look at you as if you’ve committed a crime when you put ketchup on your steak. Those culinary purists who consider using ketchup with steak an affront to the integrity of the meat. According to them, ketchup’s sweet-and-sour flavor masks the meat’s natural umami. But have they ever actually tasted it?
Delicious comfort food
Apart from steak, have you ever seen the looks you get when you put ketchup on your pasta, or put ketchup in your bolognese? As if you’ve smeared all over the essence of Italy. No, I’m not saying I dump entire plates of ketchup on my pasta, but if you add ketchup to bolognese sauce, do you know what you get? A good mix of salty, sour, and sweet—that’s delicious, that’s comfort food.
Ketchup is simply versatile, deal with it
And then there’s always that one friend who disapproves when you put ketchup on your kroket. Not on a Dutch kroket, they’ll say. But where does the frikandel special, which is so perfect with mayo and ketchup, get its flavor from? The contrast of flavors, people. Just like ketchup on a toasted sandwich. I’m not saying you should dunk your sandwich in ketchup, but if you want to dip the tip of your toasted sandwich in ketchup, who’s stopping you? I’m certainly not.
I say: ketchup goes with everything! It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it makes everything a little better. Especially my little steak.
Ketchup haters, listen up
So yes, I dip my steak in ketchup. Don’t tell me that this is a slap in the face to the chef who prepared the meat. It’s my plate, my taste, and honestly: someone else has no say in how I—or you—eat your food, do they? Why can’t we just stop hating on ketchup and let everyone do their thing? Maybe you love truffle jus with your steak, while I love ketchup. We can all enjoy our food without putting each other down. Deal?’
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