Description
Bring the rich, comforting flavors of Greece to your table with Makaronia Me Kima—a traditional Greek-style spaghetti simmered in a warmly spiced tomato meat sauce. This beloved dish is easy to make, full of authentic taste, and ready in just 90 minutes—quicker than most classic pasta recipes. Let’s explore how to make this timeless Greek favorite in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant.
- Adding the Meat: Introduce the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart, cooking until fully browned.
- Building Flavors: Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize for fuller taste, followed by the crushed tomatoes and red wine.
- 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
- Boil the Pasta: Around the 45-minute mark of the sauce simmering, cook spaghetti as per package instructions until al dente.
- Drain & Rest: Once cooked, drain and lightly coat with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Final Assembly
- 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.
- Garnish: Generously sprinkle with Kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 600
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g