Indian pasta recipes often incorporate Indian spices and flavors into traditional pasta dishes to create a unique fusion of cuisines. Here’s a recipe for Indian-style pasta with a flavorful tomato-based sauce:
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
- Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and the pasta.
- Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add Aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Spice it Up:
- Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and sauté for a couple of minutes until the spices are cooked and the oil starts to separate.
- Tomato Puree:
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the raw flavor of tomatoes disappears and the sauce thickens.
- Creamy Touch (Optional):
- If you prefer a creamy sauce, add the heavy cream at this point and stir well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add Garam Masala:
- Sprinkle the garam masala into the sauce and mix.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the Indian pasta with fresh coriander leaves (cilantro).
- Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy your Indian-style pasta!
Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Enjoy your Indian-inspired pasta!