1. Cook the Spaghetti Noodles:
- Boil Water:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pan or skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Meat:
- Add the ground beef or pork to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Hot Dogs:
- Add the sliced hot dogs to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly.
- Mix in Sauces and Seasonings:
- Pour in the banana ketchup, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine. Add the soy sauce, sugar, ground black pepper, and water or beef broth. Mix well.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and additional sugar if needed.
3. Combine and Serve:
- Mix with Noodles:
- Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the sauce, tossing well to coat each strand with the rich, savory-sweet sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the spaghetti to a serving dish and top with more grated cheddar cheese. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors!
Tips for Success:
- Banana Ketchup: This ingredient is key to the authentic flavor of Filipino-style spaghetti. If you can’t find it, regular ketchup will do, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- Meat Options: You can use ground beef, pork, or a combination of both. Some also like to add liver spread for extra richness.
- Hot Dogs: The hot dogs give the dish its distinct Filipino touch, adding a slight smokiness and additional texture.
Conclusion
Filipino-style Spaghetti, or “Spaghetti Sarap,” is a delicious and comforting dish that brings joy to any gathering. The sweet, savory sauce combined with tender noodles and the creamy richness of cheese makes it a hit among kids and adults alike. It’s a must-try recipe that showcases the unique and delightful flavors of Filipino cuisine!