Filipino Spaghetti with Beef
Introduction:
Filipino Spaghetti is a popular dish in the Philippines that showcases a unique sweet and savory flavor combination. With its distinct taste and ingredients, this dish has become a staple in Filipino households. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making delicious Filipino Spaghetti with beef, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams spaghetti noodles
- 500 grams ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Hotdogs, sliced diagonally
- Chopped parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti noodles:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and a few drops of cooking oil to the boiling water.
- Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and set aside.
2. Prepare the beef sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Add the bell peppers and carrot, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Add the tomato sauce and seasonings:
- Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, banana ketchup, and water into the skillet with the beef.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the spaghetti with the beef sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet with the beef sauce.
- Using a pair of tongs or a pasta fork, toss the noodles gently until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are heated through.
5. Serve and garnish:
- Transfer the Filipino Spaghetti with beef to a large serving dish or individual plates.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can add a small amount of liver spread or pâté to the sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar according to your preference.
- If you prefer a spicier spaghetti, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread or pandesal or a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Making Filipino Spaghetti with beef is a delightful culinary experience that will surely impress your family and friends. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender beef and perfectly cooked spaghetti, creates a truly satisfying dish. So gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy a taste of the Philippines in your own kitchen!