Filipino Bolognese Sauce

Elevate your pasta nights with a flavorful twist by trying this Filipino Bolognese Sauce! This unique take on the classic Italian recipe incorporates a blend of tender ground beef and pork, aromatic garlic and onions, and a medley of fresh vegetables. What sets this sauce apart is the addition of banana ketchup, a beloved Filipino condiment that lends a subtle sweetness and tang, perfectly complemented by soy sauce and a fragrant mix of dried herbs. Simmered to perfection and topped with optional Parmesan and parsley, this rich and hearty sauce pairs beautifully with pasta or steamed rice, making it a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep days, this fusion recipe is a must-try for anyone craving bold, comforting flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 0.5 pound ground pork
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
• 0.5 cup banana ketchup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 0 to taste salt
• 0 to taste black pepper
• 0 to taste grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• 0 to taste fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the chopped carrot and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 6

Push the meat and vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the tomato paste to the center. Cook the tomato paste for 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

Add the canned diced tomatoes, banana ketchup, and beef broth to the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 8

Season the mixture with soy sauce, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and the bay leaf. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Step 10

Taste the sauce, then add salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 11

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 12

Serve the Filipino Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta or over steamed rice. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1923.5 grams (1923.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2355

Total Fat 159.80g	205%
Saturated Fat 55.50g	278%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 509mg	170%
Sodium 5534mg	241%
Total Carbohydrate 87.80g	32%
Dietary Fiber 16.40g	59%
Total Sugars 54.60g
Protein 152.30g	305%

Vitamin D 2IU	10%
Calcium 522mg	40%
Iron 23mg	125%
Potassium 3779mg	80%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.0%

Protein: 25.4%

Carbs: 14.6%