A staple in every Filipino celebration, the Filipino Spaghetti, with its sweet and savory flavor, is a dish that sets itself apart from its Italian namesake. Its rich, vibrant taste tells a story of culture, history, and the Filipino’s love for life’s simple joys.

The Unique Ingredients

What sets Filipino Spaghetti apart is its distinct set of ingredients. The sauce is a sweet blend of banana ketchup and tomato paste, giving it a vibrant, reddish hue. To this, ground meat, usually pork or beef, is added for a savory touch. Another key ingredient is the red hotdogs, which add a layer of juiciness and sweetness to the dish. Some people, like myself, even add condensed milk to the sauce, providing it with a unique sweetness that is reminiscent of famous Jollibee spaghetti.

The dish is typically topped with a generous portion of grated cheddar cheese, the sharp, salty flavor of which complements the sweet sauce perfectly. The result is a delightful combination of flavors that dance on your tongue with every bite.

Variations of the Dish

While the basic ingredients of Filipino Spaghetti remain the same, various regions in the Philippines have put their own twist on this classic dish. Some add liver spread to the sauce for a richer flavor, while others include chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture.

There is no limit to the variations of Filipino Spaghetti. Each version reflects the culinary practices of different regions and the personal preferences of every Filipino home.

The Jollibee Phenomenon

No discussion of Filipino Spaghetti would be complete without mentioning Jollibee, the Philippines’ largest fast-food chain. Their version of the dish, known as Jolly Spaghetti, is famous for its exceptionally sweet sauce and generous topping of cheese and hotdogs.

Jollibee’s Spaghetti has become a favorite among Filipinos of all ages. It exemplifies how deeply ingrained this dish is in Filipino culture and how it continues to be a part of the collective Filipino experience.

Substitutions in the Recipe

While the traditional recipe calls for specific ingredients, you can always make substitutions based on preference or availability. For instance, ground turkey can be used in place of pork, and other types of sausages can replace the red hotdogs.

Remember, the essence of Filipino Spaghetti lies in its sweet and savory flavor profile. As long as you retain that, feel free to experiment and make this dish your own.

The Making of Filipino Spaghetti

Making Filipino Spaghetti is a simple and straightforward process. Start by sautéing garlic and onions, then add the ground meat. Once the meat is cooked, stir in the banana ketchup, tomato paste, and other ingredients. Allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

The pasta is usually cooked until it is soft, which is another way that Filipino Spaghetti sets itself apart from its Italian counterpart. Once cooked, drain the pasta and mix it with the sauce. Top with grated cheese, and your Filipino Spaghetti is ready to serve!

In Conclusion

Filipino Spaghetti is more than just a dish – it’s a testament to the Filipino’s ingenuity and love for food. It’s a taste of home for many Filipinos and a unique culinary experience for anyone willing to try. So why not give this recipe a try and experience a taste of the Philippines right at your dining table?

Filipino Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 4-6 filipino red hot dogs, sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1.5lb ground meat of choice (pork, beef, chicken, or turkey)
• 1 pack of 16 oz spaghetti
• 1 bottle banana ketchup
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup condensed milk
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tsp beef/chicken bouillon
• 1/2 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup pasta water, optional

Instructions:

1. Prepare the spaghetti as per the instructions on the package and set it aside.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in neutral oil for about a minute. Add the ground meat and cook it thoroughly.
3. Add banana ketchup, tomato paste, condensed milk, bouillon, and cheddar cheese to the mix. If the sauce gets too thick, add some pasta water. Stir well.
4. Add hot dogs and mushrooms, and let them cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve the sauce on top of the spaghetti, sprinkle more cheddar cheese, and enjoy!

Here is a quick clip on how I made this amazing Filipino dish! https://youtube.com/shorts/Kr21ot87KnA?feature=share