Filipino Spaghetti Recipe: Sweet and Salty Flavors
Filipino spaghetti is an iconic dish that tells the story of American influence in the Philippines after World War II. Following the war, the massive importation of American products, such as hot dogs and cheddar cheese , transformed the local cuisine. This unexpected mix of sweet and savory ingredients, combined with the traditional Filipino banana sauce , gave birth to this unique version of spaghetti, very different from the Italian spaghetti we know. Today, the dish is a classic at Filipino parties and family gatherings, combining nostalgia and comfort.
Ingredients (For 4 people):
- 400g spaghetti
- 100g Filipino style spaghetti sauce (UFC)
- ¼ cup UFC banana sauce
- 300g minced meat (pork or beef)
- 4 hot dogs (Nida or others), cut into slices
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation steps:
1. Cooking the spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti in a large pan of boiling salted water according to the packet instructions. Drain once cooked and set aside.
2. Preparation of the sauce
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and cook until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in Filipino-style spaghetti sauce, banana sauce, and sugar. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Add the sausage slices and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Assembly
Toss spaghetti with prepared sauce. Add grated cheese and mix until well incorporated. Serve warm and garnish with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
4. Tasting
This Filipino spaghetti dish, a legacy of World War II, is a perfect blend of American and Filipino influences. Enjoy it with family or friends, and immerse yourself in history with every sweet and savory bite.
