The Return of the Ketchup Sandwich

  I'm not saying the Earl of Sandwich would have boasted of it, but I think my rosemary ketchup could signal the return of the ketchup sandwich.

  Spoon a dollop of the stuff onto the center of a buttered bread circle and, as if by magic, you've now a colorful sandwich offering...one with enough nostalgia to maybe finagle its way onto the tea table. Although, again, I'd recommend cloaking the word ketchup with "luscious tomato spread".

  You look troubled. I know what you're thinking. We need a garnish.

  Mustard immediately comes to mind but you walk a dangerous line when using a condiment to garnish a condiment sandwich.

  Perhaps a smattering of those canned French fried onions could remedy this? A cheddar heart cut from a tiny heart cookie cutter? A tear drop of cream cheese? 

  It was surely a mere oversight when The Chips neglected to mention the ketchup sandwich in their Rubber Biscuit song, recorded back in 1956. You're in luck in case you missed this little doo-wop number by not yet being born. The Blues Brother's did a rendition of it as only they can...

Luscious Tomato Spread

1 28-ounce can tomato puree

1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

1 teaspoon beef base

1 6" stem fresh rosemary

1/2 cup brewed Keemun or Assam tea

1/4 cup Demerara sugar

1/4 cup sherry or brandy

  Put all into a crock pot and cook, uncovered, on low for six hours, stirring occasionally. Makes 1.5 cups.

And, here is my recipe for
Rosemary Skin Freshner

1/2 cup fresh rosemary, destemed

11/4 distilled water

1/2 lemon peel, no juice

  Put all in a small pan and bring to a low boil. Cover and let simmer for 35-40 or until the liquid is reduced to 1/2 cup. Add 1 tablespoon brandy. Keep in the refrigerator and use with a cotton pad to freshen hot and/or tired skin.

  I agree. Enough with the rosemary...for now anyway.