This is a simplified version of the first Spaghetti Bolognese recipe I shared with you few years ago. It’s a fusion of Filipino, Thai and definitely Italian cooking. My version of spaghetti bolognese is sweet, salty, a bit chili, savoury and cheesy dish. Cooking Like A Pro hope you find it interesting enough to try.
Here is what you’ll need.
Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style
Ingredients
- 300-400 g Minced pork or beef,
- 50-100 g Pork liver minced or choppedOlive oil, 23tbsp
- 6-8 cloves Garlic crushed and minced
- 1 whole Onions chopped
- 40 g Raisins 1 small packet
- 500 g Pasta
- Fish sauce to season
- 400 g Tomato sauce 1 can
- 1 tbsp Sweet chili sauce
- ½ cup Water for the sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian herbs
- ½ tbsp Dried oregano
- ½ tbsp Dried basil
- Grated cheese as much as desired
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to cook the pasta with
- 4-5 tbsp Salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water.
I used 4-5tbsp of salt in my water. You can put more salt if you like. It won’t make your pasta salty. If anything, it will give it its own taste. Be generous with the salt is all I’m saying. Also, there is no need to follow the instructions in the pasta packets to a T. You determine whether your pasta is ready or not. Test it by getting a strand from the pot. Bite it in the middle and check if it still has an “eye” or a center. If yes, then give it a few more minutes. If none, turn off the heat. Your pasta should be ready.
- When the pasta cooks, strain and set aside.
- Pasta bolognese
- Heat cooking oil in a pan.
- Saute the garlic.
- When the garlic turns golden, add in the onions.
- When the onions turn sweaty, put in the pork (or beef). Stir well.
- Season the dish with fish sauce.
Earlier I mentioned that this pasta recipe has a touch of Thai cooking in it. It’s the fish sauce. I noticed that Thai food usually uses fish sauce rather that salt for seasoning. I find it more subtle in taste than salt. You can use salt though, if you wish.
- Saute the dish well.
Cooking the pork is the most that takes time in this recipe. I want to saute it well so that its fats mix well into the dish. It takes me 1015 minutes under medium to high heat before I proceed to the next steps.
- Add in the pork liver.
- When the liver is cooked, put in the raisins. Stir well.
- Add the water. Stir well.
- When the dish boils, add the tomato sauce. Cook under lowmedium heat.
- When it simmers, add the sweet chili sauce. Stir well.
- Put in the Italian herbs, oregano and basil. Stir well.
- Add in the cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper.
You may notice that after step 8, everything else would follow quickly. As soon as the proteins are cooked, I just add in the other ingredients one by one. I let the sauce simmer to another 510 minutes under low heat before I season with salt and pepper. Adjust the sweet chili sauce to your liking, too. If you want a hotter pasta sauce, add a little more in there.
Video
Notes
Tips and Tricks to make Spaghetti Bolognese
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Filipino-style Spaghetti Bolognese
Cooking this dish is an art, and like any masterpiece, it requires a bit of finesse. Here are some tips to ensure your Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style Recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- The Right Meat: While traditional Bolognese uses ground beef, don’t be afraid to mix it up with some ground pork for that authentic Filipino touch. The combination adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Sweetness is Key: Filipinos love a hint of sweetness in their spaghetti. Achieve this by adding a spoonful of sugar or, better yet, banana ketchup, which brings both color and sweetness to the dish.
- Cheese Matters: A generous topping of grated cheese, particularly a Filipino favorite like Eden cheese, can make all the difference. It adds a creamy texture that’s irresistible.
FAQs About Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style Recipe
Q: What makes Filipino-style Spaghetti Bolognese different from the classic version? A: The Filipino twist on this classic involves a sweeter sauce and the addition of hotdogs or Filipino red sausages, giving it a distinct flavor and appeal.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? A: Absolutely! In fact, letting the sauce simmer longer enhances the flavors. You can even make it a day ahead and reheat it before serving.
Q: What if I want a healthier version? A: For a healthier take, consider using lean meat and whole wheat spaghetti. You can also add more veggies like carrots and bell peppers to the sauce. Spaghetti with White Clam Sauce recipe: If you’re looking to try a different twist, explore the delightful flavors of Spaghetti with White Clam Sauce. This seafood-infused variation offers a lighter and fresher option for those seeking a unique pasta experience.
How to Serve Your Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style
Oh, absolutely! Let’s dive deeper into the art of serving this delightful dish. When it comes to serving your Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style Recipe, you want to create an experience that’s as memorable as the flavors themselves.
Imagine the scene: a large, inviting platter at the center of the dining table, the spaghetti glistening with the rich, sweet sauce, and the vibrant reds of the hotdogs or Filipino sausages peeking through. The aroma alone is enough to gather everyone around, eager for a taste.
Here’s how to elevate that experience:
- The Perfect Platter: Choose a platter that complements the colors of the dish. A white or light-colored dish can make the vibrant colors of the spaghetti pop, making it even more appetizing.
- Generous Garnishing: After ladling your spaghetti onto the platter, sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese on top while it’s still hot, so the cheese melts slightly, creating a layer of creamy goodness. Then, add a dash of chopped parsley or even some green onions for a fresh contrast.
- Add Some Crunch: Filipinos love a bit of texture in their meals. Consider adding a side of toasted garlic bread or pandesal that’s been lightly buttered and toasted to golden perfection. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
- A Side of Sweetness: To truly embrace the Filipino-style, serve a small bowl of banana ketchup on the side for those who want an extra kick of sweetness and a more authentic experience.
- Family-Style Feasting: Encourage a communal vibe by setting the platter in the middle of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. It’s not just about sharing a meal; it’s about sharing moments.
- Beverage Pairing: While not traditional, you can pair your spaghetti with a refreshing drink like calamansi juice or a simple iced tea to balance the sweetness of the dish.
- End on a High Note: And for dessert? Why not continue the fusion theme with a slice of mango float or leche flan to round off the meal?
Remember, the joy of Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style Recipe is not just in the eating, but in the entire experience of sharing a meal made with love. So go ahead, make it a feast to remember!
Personal Touches and Final Thoughts
As someone who grew up enjoying this dish, I can’t help but feel nostalgic every time I cook it. My personal touch? I love adding a bit of liver spread to the sauce for a richer taste – it’s a game-changer, trust me!
There you have it, folks – your guide to making a mouthwatering Spaghetti Bolognese Filipino-style Recipe that’s sure to impress. Remember, cooking is all about putting your spin on things, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make the dish your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious flavors of the Philippines right at your dinner table!
