SPAGHETTI mixed in tomato sauce, in the Philippines, has sprouted a variation that’s far different than that of its Italian origin. Fondly identified as Filipino-style spaghetti, it is characterized by a flagrant sweet flavor. The sauce is a blend of tomato sauce and brown sugar, and its toppings an overload of sliced sausages and grated cheese. Its novelty often provokes indignation among foreigners who are used to its sourer counterpart—yet its sweetness has prevailed.

An easy dish to prepare and even easier to order, spaghetti has become a staple in many celebrations at home, more so come Noche Buena when kids—and those who never outgrow it—relish in having a serving or two of it. Its colors of red and yellow complement the season’s motif, too!