If you’re looking for a nostalgic dish that reminds you of childhood birthdays and festive gatherings, look no further than Filipino Spaghetti—now with a vegan twist! Known for its signature sweet sauce, a mix of banana ketchup, and rich tomato sauce, Filipino spaghetti is a comfort dish loved by many.
This vegan version includes Trader Joe’s Vegan Ground Beef, vegan hot dogs, and a balance of sweetness and savory flavors that make it perfect for any special occasion. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 package Trader Joe’s Vegan Ground Beef
- 2 vegan hot dogs, sliced
- 2 tbsp agave syrup (or coconut sugar)
- ½ cup banana ketchup (or substitute with tomato sauce and a bit of sugar)
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- ¼ cup vegan parmesan (for topping)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package directions
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Steps:
- Prepare the Base:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. - Cook the Vegan Ground Beef:
Add the Trader Joe’s Vegan Ground Beef to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. - Add the Tomato Base:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, banana ketchup, and agave syrup. Mix well to combine all the flavors. If you don't have banana ketchup, you can use a mix of tomato sauce and a tablespoon of brown sugar to get that signature sweetness. - Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the vegetable stock, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. - Add the Vegan Hot Dogs:
Stir in the sliced vegan hot dogs and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. This step gives the sauce its classic Filipino-style sweet and savory profile. - Combine with Spaghetti:
Once your spaghetti noodles are cooked al dente, drain them and mix them into the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated. - Serve and Garnish:
Serve the spaghetti on a plate, and generously top with vegan parmesan. Enjoy your Vegan Filipino Spaghettiwarm, with a sprinkle of extra black pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat!
Substitutions:
- Banana Ketchup: If you can’t find banana ketchup, use regular tomato sauce and add 1-2 tablespoon of brown sugar or coconut sugar to mimic the sweetness.
- Vegan Ground Beef: Substitute with any other plant-based ground meat alternative like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger.
- Vegan Hot Dogs: Swap the vegan hot dogs for vegan sausages or omit them if you prefer a simpler version.
Variations:
- Spicy Filipino Spaghetti: Add chili flakes or hot paprika to the sauce for a spicier kick, perfect for those who love a little heat in their pasta.
- Cheesier Version: For extra richness, mix in a tablespoon of vegan butter or a few tablespoons of vegan cheddar cheese into the sauce before serving.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
FAQ:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This spaghetti stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.
Is Filipino spaghetti supposed to be sweet?
Yes, the sweetness is what makes Filipino spaghetti unique. The addition of banana ketchup or sugar gives it that characteristic sweet profile that sets it apart from regular Italian-style spaghetti.
Can I freeze this spaghetti?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave and add a splash of vegetable stock to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Top Tip:
For the most authentic flavor, be sure to use banana ketchup as the base of your sauce. It’s a key ingredient that gives this dish its signature sweetness and is commonly found in Asian markets or online.
Hint:
If you want to replicate the true Filipino birthday party experience, serve this spaghetti with a side of vegan fried chickenor enjoy it with garlic bread. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any special occasion!
This Vegan Filipino Spaghetti recipe is a great option for those who miss the sweet and savory taste of the traditional dish but want to keep it plant-based. With its easy-to-find ingredients and nostalgic flavors, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether for birthday parties, special occasions, or just a comforting meal at home, this vegan version of Filipino-style spaghetti is sure to impress!
Vegan Filipino Birthday Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 can 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 package Trader Joe’s Vegan Ground Beef
- 2 vegan hot dogs sliced
- 2 tablespoon agave syrup or coconut sugar
- ½ cup banana ketchup or substitute with tomato sauce and a bit of sugar
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- ¼ cup vegan parmesan for topping
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Spaghetti noodles cooked according to package directions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Vegan Ground Beef:
- Add the Trader Joe’s Vegan Ground Beef to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the Tomato Base:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, banana ketchup, and agave syrup. Mix well to combine all the flavors. If you don't have banana ketchup, you can use a mix of tomato sauce and a tablespoon of brown sugar to get that signature sweetness.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the vegetable stock, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Vegan Hot Dogs:
- Stir in the sliced vegan hot dogs and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. This step gives the sauce its classic Filipino-style sweet and savory profile.
- Combine with Spaghetti:
- Once your spaghetti noodles are cooked al dente, drain them and mix them into the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the spaghetti on a plate, and generously top with vegan parmesan. Enjoy your Vegan Filipino Spaghetti warm, with a sprinkle of extra black pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat!
