Step into the fascinating world of yoshoku (Western-influenced Japanese cuisine) with Spaghetti Napolitan – a uniquely Japanese interpretation of pasta that dates back to post-World War II. Despite its Italian-sounding name, this dish is pure Japanese innovation, featuring spaghetti stir-fried with vegetables in a ketchup-based sauce that has become a beloved comfort food across Japan.
The Unique History
Created at the Hotel New Grand in Yokohama during the post-war period, Spaghetti Napolitan was inspired by the American military’s presence in Japan. The chef used ketchup, which was readily available through American military supplies, to create a sauce that would appeal to both Western and Japanese palates.
Ingredients
For 2 servings:
- 200g spaghetti
- 4 hot dogs or Vienna sausages, sliced diagonally
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, julienned
- 100g button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
To Serve:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley
- Tabasco sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta
- Cook spaghetti in well-salted water until al dente
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining
- Toss pasta with a little oil to prevent sticking
- Prepare the Sauce
- Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce in a small bowl
- Set aside
- Cook the Components
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat
- Sauté garlic until fragrant
- Add sliced hot dogs, and cook until lightly browned
- Add onions and bell peppers, and cook until softened
- Add mushrooms, and cook until they release their moisture
- Combine and Finish
- Add cooked spaghetti to the pan
- Pour in the sauce mixture
- Toss everything together over high heat
- Add butter for glossiness
- If needed, add pasta water to achieve the desired consistency
- Season with salt and pepper
- Serve
- Plate while hot
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish with chopped parsley
- Serve with additional Tabasco sauce if desired
Pro Tips for Perfect Neapolitan
- Noodle Texture: Cook the spaghetti slightly past al dente – Japanese prefer their pasta a bit softer than traditional Italian style.
- Sauce Consistency: The sauce should coat the noodles well but shouldn’t be too wet. The ketchup will thicken as it cooks.
- High Heat Finish: Final tossing should be done over high heat to achieve some caramelization of the sauce.
- Hot Dog Choice: While traditional Vienna sausages are authentic, any good quality hot dog or even bacon can work well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why ketchup? Isn’t this an Italian dish?
A: Despite its name, Spaghetti Napolitan is a Japanese creation. Ketchup was readily available in post-war Japan through American military supplies, and Japanese chefs adapted it to create this unique fusion dish.
Q: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Yes! While onions and green peppers are traditional, you can add carrots, celery, or any vegetables you prefer. Many modern versions include broccoli or spinach.
Q: Is this dish eaten in Naples, Italy?
A: No, this is purely a Japanese invention. The name “Neapolitan” was likely chosen because Naples is famous for pasta, but the dish itself has no connection to Italian cuisine.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add Tabasco sauce, red pepper flakes, or even fresh chilies. Some modern versions incorporate sriracha sauce.
Q: How do I prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy?
A: Don’t overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook when tossed with the hot sauce. Keep the final tossing brief and vigorous.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Skip the hot dogs and add more mushrooms, or use plant-based sausages. The ketchup-based sauce is already vegetarian-friendly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water and heat in a pan, tossing frequently. Microwave reheating is possible but may result in softer noodles.
Modern Variations
- Cheese Lovers: Add melted mozzarella on top
- Spicy Version: Include Japanese shichimi togarashi spice blend
- Luxury Version: Use higher-end sausages or even seafood
- Health-Conscious: Use whole wheat pasta and reduce ketchup amount
- Premium: Some restaurants serve it with a soft-poached egg on top
Cultural Impact
Spaghetti Napolitan represents the beginning of Japan’s love affair with pasta dishes. It paved the way for other Japanese pasta innovations and remains a beloved menu item in Yoshoku restaurants and casual dining establishments across Japan.
In recent years, there’s been a revival of interest in this retro dish, with many young chefs creating gourmet versions while respecting its humble origins. It’s considered a perfect example of how Japan adapts foreign dishes to local tastes while creating something entirely new and uniquely Japanese.
Whether you’re exploring Japanese fusion cuisine or simply looking for a quick, satisfying meal, Spaghetti Napolitan offers a delicious taste of Japanese culinary history. Don’t let the unusual combination of ingredients deter you – this dish has been winning hearts (and appetites) for over half a century!