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!