Filipino Style Spaghetti With Condensed Milk
Spaghetti is a popular dish all over the world, but the Filipino version stands out for its unique twist. Filipino style spaghetti is a sweet and savory mix of ground meat, tomato sauce, and a secret ingredient: condensed milk. This popular dish is a staple in Filipino households and is often served during special occasions and gatherings. In this article, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and preparation of this mouth-watering dish.
The Origins of Filipino Style Spaghetti
Spaghetti was introduced to the Philippines by the Americans during their occupation of the country in the early 1900s. However, the Filipino version of spaghetti is quite different from the classic Italian recipe. The sweet and savory flavor of Filipino style spaghetti is said to have originated from the Chinese who migrated to the Philippines and brought with them their love for sweet and savory dishes.
Over time, this dish has become a Filipino favorite and has been adapted to suit local tastes. The addition of condensed milk is what sets it apart from other spaghetti recipes and gives it a unique flavor and texture.
Ingredients
The ingredients for Filipino style spaghetti can be found in most grocery stores and are easy to prepare. Here is a list of the ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients:
- Hotdogs, sliced diagonally
- Cheese, grated
Preparation
Preparing Filipino style spaghetti is easy and can be done in under an hour. Here are the steps:
- Boil a pot of water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pan, heat the cooking oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Mix well and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the condensed milk and stir until well combined.
- Add the optional ingredients if desired and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Serve the spaghetti with the sauce on top and sprinkle some grated cheese if desired.
The Sweet and Savory Delight
Filipino style spaghetti is a unique and delicious dish that will surely delight your taste buds. The addition of condensed milk gives it a creamy and sweet flavor that complements the tanginess of the tomato sauce. The ground beef and vegetables add texture and depth to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal.
It is often served during special occasions and gatherings, but can also be enjoyed as a comfort food on a lazy day. It is a dish that brings people together and is a testament to the rich and diverse culinary history of the Philippines.
In Conclusion
Filipino style spaghetti with condensed milk is a sweet and savory delight that is loved by many. Its origins may be rooted in different cultures, but its unique flavor and texture have made it a quintessential Filipino dish. With its easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, it is a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. So go ahead and give it a try, and experience the sweet and savory goodness of Filipino style spaghetti with condensed milk.
