The Popular Condiment 84% Of People Have In Their Kitchen, But It's Not Their Favorite

Tracking patterns and preferences of the American consumer can be quite eye-opening, particularly on the subject of condiments. You might think there's a single sauce for all seasons, but what's popular with some isn't always so with others. According to a YouGov survey, 84% of Americans report the presence of ketchup in their kitchen; however, the oft-polarizing condiment pales in comparison to how beloved peanut butter, honey, and barbecue sauce are to many.

Furthermore, ketchup was also ranked among the top three condiments people would keep if they could choose only one, placing it just behind mayonnaise at 16% and slightly ahead of peanut butter at 14%. Still, ketchup didn't inspire the strongest enthusiasm among respondents. According to the survey, only 33% of respondents said they loved it, while 42% said they liked it, 16% were neutral, 4% disliked it, and 5% hated it.

Whether you love it or hate it, ketchup is undeniably useful. There are a myriad of enthusiastic opinions both in favor and against the tomato-based condiment. On Reddit, one user raves, "Ketchup is the best condiment. It can go on anything. Beef, chicken, fish, potatoes? ... It's more flavorful and complimentary than other condiments." Another commenter replies, "I put ketchup on many things (burgers, hot dogs, fries, eggs, rice, soup, sandwiches, really just about anything that could use a little something extra — not steaks, definitely not steaks though lol)." Despite the condiment's popularity as a tangy, tomato-forward kitchen staple, others malign its excessive sweetness and simplicity.

One Redditor shares, "It's probably the most widespread condiment so I know this is an 'unpopular opinion'. I've never understood why anyone would willingly use ketchup when other alternatives exist." Looking at the best substitutes for ketchup interestingly highlights the condiment's unique versatility as a building block for other sauces. While ketchup alone might not be your favorite ingredient in the kitchen, a single bottle can do wonders to elevate a variety of dishes.

For one, when mixed with mayonnaise, ketchup becomes an essential element of Thousand Island dressing or any number of secret special sauces. Similarly, ketchup makes an excellent base for a bold barbecue sauce when combined with mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, and savory spices. Not to mention that all you need is ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to whip up a zesty cocktail sauce for seafood. If you're a fan of ketchup on your fries, try mixing it with sour cream instead of mayo for a lighter dipping sauce. In a pinch, the condiment can also make a low-effort spaghetti sauce.

One Redditor mentions trying a myriad of popular tomato condiments as a grilled cheese accompaniment only to conclude: "Do you know what the best tomato-based condiment is to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich? Just plain ol' ketchup." Albeit hotly contested and frequently criticized, most Americans have ketchup on hand to either enjoy on its own or combine with complementary condiments to make a satisfying sauce.