Keema Pasta

Keema Pasta Recipe from Pakistan - Delicious Peas and Pasta Dish

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Keema Pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the richness of minced meat with the comforting goodness of pasta. This fusion dish is a perfect blend of Indian and Italian flavors, making it a unique and satisfying meal for any occasion.

History

Keema Pasta is a popular dish in many Indian households, where it is often served as a hearty and filling meal. The recipe is believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, where minced meat (keema) is a common ingredient in many traditional dishes. The addition of pasta to the keema creates a fusion of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 kg ground meat
handful of peas
500 g pasta
2 small tomatoes
2 onions
2 green chillies
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp chilli powder
0.5 tsp turmeric
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp garam masala powder
1 clove of crushed garlic
bunch of fresh coriander leaves

How to prepare

Put oil in a pan and fry garlic and onions. Then add one chili and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Next, add keema and cook for 3 minutes. Then add zeera, garam masala, and coriander powder. Cook for 15 minutes.
Add haldi, other green chili, and chili powder. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Then add tomatoes and stir until they melt. Add peas.
Separately, boil pasta while keema is cooking on low heat. Add water to keema if necessary.
Drain the pasta and add it to the keema. Stir for 5 minutes, then add fresh coriander and serve.

Variations

You can customize Keema Pasta by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the keema on low heat to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

- Adding fresh coriander leaves at the end of cooking adds a burst of freshness and flavor to the dish.

- You can adjust the spice level of the dish by adding more or less chili powder and green chilies according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Keema Pasta can be served with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty and comforting dish.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making delicious Keema Pasta is to cook the minced meat slowly on low heat to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Stirring the pasta into the keema at the end of cooking ensures that the flavors are well combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the minced meat with ground chicken, turkey, or lamb for a different flavor profile. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Keema Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the dish in a pan or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

You can garnish Keema Pasta with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves or a dollop of yogurt for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the dish in a colorful bowl or plate for an eye-catching presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Keema Pasta pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea. You can also serve it with a side of raita or pickles for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Keema Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Keema Pasta typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Keema Pasta mainly come from the pasta, which provides energy to fuel your body throughout the day.

Fats

The fats in Keema Pasta come from the oil used for cooking the keema and the natural fats present in the minced meat. It is important to consume fats in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

The protein in Keema Pasta comes from the minced meat, which is a rich source of essential amino acids that are important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Keema Pasta is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and coriander leaves, as well as iron and zinc from the minced meat.

Alergens

Keema Pasta contains gluten from the pasta, and may also contain allergens such as soy (if using soy sauce) and nuts (if using as a garnish).

Summary

Keema Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Keema Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the richness of minced meat with the comforting goodness of pasta. This fusion dish is a perfect blend of Indian and Italian flavors, making it a unique and flavorful meal for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a chilly evening in the heart of winter, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Alice. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Keema Pasta. I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the combination of spiced ground meat and creamy pasta intrigued me.

I knew I had to try it.

I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients. I rummaged through my pantry for the necessary spices - cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. I found a pound of ground beef in the freezer and a box of spaghetti in the cupboard. The recipe called for tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger, all of which I had on hand.

As I began to cook, the familiar scents of the spices filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my childhood. I remembered watching my own grandmother in the kitchen, her hands expertly measuring out spices and stirring pots of bubbling curries. She had taught me everything I knew about cooking, passing down recipes that had been in our family for generations.

As the Keema Pasta simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down to me, adding my own flair to a recipe that had been inspired by a chance encounter with a cookbook.

When the dish was finally ready, I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of flavors. The spiced ground beef paired perfectly with the creamy pasta, creating a dish that was both comforting and exotic. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own repertoire, a dish that I would proudly serve to family and friends.

Over the years, I have made this Keema Pasta countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, all of whom have marveled at the unique combination of flavors.

But the true beauty of this recipe lies in the story behind it. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to evoke memories of loved ones long gone. Every time I make Keema Pasta, I am reminded of my grandmother and the countless hours we spent together in the kitchen, her gentle guidance shaping me into the cook I am today.

And so, as I sit down to a steaming plate of Keema Pasta, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that brought me so much joy. It may have come from a chance encounter with a cookbook, but to me, it will always be a cherished part of my culinary heritage.