Description
This flavorful Arabic Pasta recipe combines tender penne pasta with a rich, spiced tomato and ground meat sauce infused with cumin, cinnamon, and allspice. Perfect as a comforting main course, it can be easily adapted for vegetarians and served with a dollop of creamy yogurt or labneh for an authentic Middle Eastern touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz penne or elbow pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 pound ground beef or lamb (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Optional
- Plain yogurt or labneh for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Meat (if using): Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned completely. If excess fat accumulates, drain it off.
- Add Spices and Simmer Sauce: Stir in ground cumin, cinnamon, allspice, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta well in the sauce. Cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish, and serve warm. Optionally offer plain yogurt or labneh on the side for creaminess.
Notes
- This recipe features warm Middle Eastern spices, giving the pasta a comforting and aromatic flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and substitute with cooked chickpeas or sautéed vegetables of choice.
- Adjust chili flakes according to desired spice level.
- Using fresh parsley enhances the freshness and presentation, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch.
- Serve with a side of Arabic salad or flatbread to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
