Are you ready for a flavor explosion? Forget everything you think you know about spaghetti. This Filipino-style spaghetti, or Panlasang Pinoy spaghetti as it's affectionately known, is a sweet, savory, and undeniably addictive dish that's a staple in Filipino homes. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a unique twist on a classic! This recipe offers a delicious and easy guide to this beloved dish.
Ingredients: You'll Need These for a Delicious Meal
This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground pork (or beef)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup (this is key to the Filipino flavor!)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or quick melt)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Your Panlasang Pinoy Spaghetti
Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to recreate this delicious Filipino comfort food.
-
Cook the Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
-
Brown the Meat: Add the ground pork (or beef) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, banana ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, white vinegar, and black pepper. Add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spaghetti to absorb the sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Filipino Spaghetti
- Banana Ketchup: This is the secret ingredient! If you can't find banana ketchup, you can try making a substitute using ketchup, mashed banana, and a touch of brown sugar. However, authentic banana ketchup provides the unique sweetness and tang that defines this dish.
- Don't Overcook the Spaghetti: Make sure your spaghetti is perfectly al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked spaghetti will become mushy.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet spaghetti, reduce the amount of brown sugar to your liking.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or peas for a healthier and more colorful dish. Adding these during step 3 with the garlic is recommended.
Variations: Explore Different Flavors
- Spicy Spaghetti: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Spaghetti: Omit the ground meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can even add some firm tofu for protein.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Filipino Spaghetti recipe is a testament to the delicious and unique flavors of Filipino cuisine. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!