Namibian-style Pasta with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

In this Namibian adaptation, the traditional Somali Baasto iyo suugo is transformed into a pasta dish with a Namibian twist. The original dish typically includes Somali spices and flavors, while the Namibian version incorporates local spices such as coriander, cumin, and paprika to infuse the tomato sauce with a unique taste. Additionally, the pasta is used as the base instead of Somali-style noodles, giving the dish a familiar Italian touch. We alse have the original recipe for Baasto iyo suugo, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8oz) pasta 250g (8.8oz) pasta
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until they start to soften.
5. 5.
   Stir in the ground coriander, ground cumin, and paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until it is well coated with the tomato sauce.
8. 8.
   Cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pasta — Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it retains a slight bite and doesn't become mushy.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish to add a burst of freshness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cooked tomato mixture before adding the pasta.

Serving advice

Serve the Namibian-style Pasta with Tomato Sauce hot as a main course. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread on the side.

Presentation advice

Plate the pasta neatly on individual serving plates or in a large serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an appealing pop of color.