Introduction
Tunisian prawn spaghetti is a vibrant and flavorful dish that beautifully combines the bold spices of North African cuisine with the comforting qualities of Italian pasta. This delightful recipe, crafted by Jamie Oliver, showcases succulent prawns paired with a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Spaghetti – 300g
– Prawns – 300g
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
– Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
– Red chili flakes – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
– Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
– Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
– Canned cherry tomatoes – 400g
– Fresh parsley – a small bunch, chopped
– Lemon – 1, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish typically takes about 10 minutes. This includes washing, chopping, and measuring all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for Tunisian prawn spaghetti is approximately 20 minutes. This brings the total time for the recipe to around 30 minutes. The dish serves 4, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Gather all necessary ingredients for the dish, ensuring you have fresh prawns, spaghetti, and your choice of vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of cooking water.
Step 3: Heat the oil
In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot before adding more ingredients.
Step 4: Sauté garlic and vegetables
Add chopped garlic and any selected vegetables to the pan, stirring frequently. Cook until they start to soften and become fragrant.
Step 5: Add the prawns
Once the vegetables are tender, add the prawns to the pan. Stir them in and cook for a few minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Step 6: Mix in the spices
Sprinkle in your preferred spices, such as chili flakes and paprika, according to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 7: Combine spaghetti and sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with prawns and vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
Step 8: Finish and serve
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Ingredient substitutions
You can replace prawns with any other seafood or protein of your choice, and adjust the vegetables based on what is in season or available.
Note 2: Spice levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your heat preference.
Note 3: Make it vegetarian
For a vegetarian option, omit the prawns and add more colorful vegetables or legumes for protein.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Pasta must be cooked in a large pot of salted boiling water. This method ensures even cooking and helps to prevent the pasta from becoming sticky.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking method involving cooking ingredients in a small amount of oil over high heat. This technique is used to create flavor and a beautiful texture in the dish.
Use of Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their bright taste and vibrant color.
Preparing Seafood
When cooking seafood, ensure it’s fresh and avoid overcooking. Quick sautéing or grilling is recommended to keep the prawns tender and juicy.
Combining Flavors
Balancing flavors is essential. Start with garlic and chili for a foundational taste, then add tomatoes and spices to create depth within the sauce.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti is traditionally used for this dish, but you can substitute it with other long pasta types as per your preference.
Can I use frozen prawns instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on a low flame to avoid overcooking the prawns.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute prawns with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers and add more herbs for flavor.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
This Tunisian prawn spaghetti is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the richness of the Mediterranean with the zest of North African spices. Its simplicity allows the fresh ingredients to shine, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
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