Macaroni pasta, a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide, is incredibly versatile and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this classic dish offers a satisfying and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. From simple weeknight dinners to celebratory gatherings, macaroni pasta adapts beautifully to various tastes and preferences, accommodating additions like vegetables, meats, and different cheeses. The creamy texture of the pasta, combined with a flavorful sauce, creates a truly irresistible culinary experience.
This recipe focuses on a simple yet savory tomato sauce, providing a foundational understanding of preparing macaroni pasta that you can easily adapt and expand upon. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparation times; our step-by-step guide will have you enjoying a plate of delicious macaroni pasta in no time. Let's dive into the straightforward steps that will guide you towards pasta perfection.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Pan
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 1 cup
- Water: 4 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Oil: 1 teaspoon + 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 teaspoon (finely chopped)
- Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon (finely chopped)
- Onion: 1/2 cup (finely chopped)
- Chopped tomatoes: 1 cup (about 2 medium tomatoes)
- Capsicum (bell pepper): 1/4 cup (chopped)
- Carrots: 2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon
- Mixed herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Tomato sauce: 1 tbsp
- Chopped coriander leaves: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon oil. Add 1 cup elbow macaroni, stir occasionally, and cook until fork tender (5-6 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add finely chopped garlic and ginger; sauté until golden (about 1 minute).
- Add finely chopped onions and a pinch of salt; sauté until translucent and golden. Add chopped tomatoes, capsicum, and carrots. Cook until tomatoes are mushy and the raw smell disappears. Cover and let soften.
Step 3. Create the Savory Tomato Sauce
- Add red chili powder, garam masala, and mixed herbs; sauté briefly. Pour in tomato sauce and reserved pasta water. Simmer for 1 minute.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce; toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with chopped coriander leaves. Mix well.
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Misir Wot: Spicy Ethiopian Lentils Recipe
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta instead of macaroni?
Absolutely! You can substitute macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or even rotini. The cooking time might vary slightly, so check the package instructions.
2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit any meat. For a vegan version, use vegan butter or oil instead of regular butter, and ensure your tomato sauce doesn't contain any animal products (check the label).
This simple recipe demonstrates that creating a delicious and satisfying meal doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy your homemade macaroni pasta, and remember to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to personalize this classic dish to your liking. Happy cooking!