Greek Style Spaghetti (Makaronia Me Kima) Recipe Easy & Delicious

Have you ever wondered how to recreate the heartwarming flavors of traditional Greek cuisine without leaving your kitchen? The Greek Style Spaghetti, known as Makaronia Me Kima, is a dish rich in history and bursting with flavor. With its aromatic spices and rich tomato sauce nestled over perfectly al dente pasta, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Today, we’ll dive into a recipe that’s not only easy to follow but also promises a taste of Greece right at your dining table. And yes, the best part—it takes up to 90 minutes, which is 20% quicker than many complex pasta recipes. Curious? Let’s unravel the secrets of this Greek culinary gem.

Ingredients List

To craft an authentic Greek Style Spaghetti (Makaronia Me Kima), you’ll need:

• Spaghetti: 500g of your favorite brand
• Ground Beef or Lamb: 500g, lean for a healthier touch
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, embracing the Mediterranean essence
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Canned Tomatoes: 400g, crushed
• Red Wine: 1/2 cup, for depth in flavor
• Bay Leaves: 2, a fragrant layer of aroma
• Cinnamon Stick: 1 small, adds an intriguing warmth
• Nutmeg: A pinch, for a subtle punch
• Salt & Pepper: To taste
• Grated Kefalotyri or Parmesan Cheese: A little more than a sprinkle

Substitutions: For those who are vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also switch red wine with beef broth or water with a splash of balsamic for an alcohol-free version.

Timing

Preparation and cooking culminate in 90 minutes, encapsulating the expertise of Greek cuisine swiftly and deliciously:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 90 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant.
2. Adding the Meat: Introduce the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart, cooking until fully browned.
3. Building Flavors: Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize for fuller taste, followed by the crushed tomatoes and red wine.
4. Seasoning & Simmer: Drop in bay leaves, cinnamon stick, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cooking the Spaghetti

1. Boil the Pasta: Around the 45-minute mark of the sauce simmering, cook spaghetti as per package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain & Rest: Once cooked, drain and lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Final Assembly

1. Combine: Once the sauce is rich and thick, combine it with the spaghetti directly in the pan or plate individually topped with the sauce for a rustic feel.
2. Garnish: Generously sprinkle with Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Greek Style Spaghetti offers:

• Calories: Approximately 600
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 75g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 5g

These numbers vary slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes but provide a balanced meal rich in protein and energy.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make Makaronia Me Kima even healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Spaghetti: A boost of fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste.
• Turkey or Chicken Mince: Lower in saturated fats than traditional red meat options.
• Reduced-Fat Cheese: Maintain the cheesy goodness with fewer calories.

Serving Suggestions

Makaronia Me Kima is versatile and can be complemented with:

• Side Salad: A simple Greek salad with cucumber, olives, and feta to round out the meal.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the rich tomato sauce.
• Red Wine: For those indulging, a glass of Greek red wine like Agiorgitiko pairs perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Always aim for al dente to prevent a mushy texture.
• Rushing the Sauce: The depth of flavor develops over time. Avoid cranking up the heat for quick results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Makaronia Me Kima makes for fantastic leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
• Prepping in Advance: The sauce can be made a day ahead, enhancing the flavors.

Conclusion

This Greek Style Spaghetti (Makaronia Me Kima) recipe captures the essence of Greek cuisine through its simple ingredients and timeless techniques. It’s an invitation to bring a taste of Greece to your table, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Now that you’re equipped with this easy and delicious recipe, it’s your turn to recreate magic in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your culinary achievements or browse our blog for more such enticing recipes.

FAQs

Q: Can I skip the cinnamon?
A: While it’s a distinct flavor in Greek cuisine, you can omit it if you’re not a fan. Consider substituting with a pinch of allspice for a different yet hearty note.

Q: What’s the best vegetarian version?
A: Replace meat with lentils or a hearty mushroom base for a rich, earthy flavor that holds up well with the sauce.

Q: How can I keep my pasta from sticking?
A: After cooking, toss the spaghetti lightly in olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but adds to the flavor profile.

Explore related recipes and tips on our blog, and feel free to drop your feedback. Happy cooking!

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