Creamy Linguine with Cashews

Ingredients

In this Indonesian Arab adaptation, the traditional Italian linguine con le noci is infused with the flavors of Indonesian Arab cuisine. The original recipe is enhanced with a blend of aromatic spices commonly used in Indonesian Arab cooking, such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Additionally, the dish incorporates local ingredients like garlic, onions, and fresh herbs to create a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Linguine con le noci, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) linguine pasta 250g (8.8 oz) linguine pasta
• 1 cup (150g) cashews, soaked in water 1 cup (150g) cashews, soaked in water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
• Crushed cashews, for garnish Crushed cashews, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, cardamom, chili powder, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cashew sauce and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked linguine to the pan and toss until well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Serve the linguine in individual plates or bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of crushed cashews.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cashews — Soaking the cashews in water helps to soften them and makes them easier to blend into a creamy sauce. Make sure to drain them before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cashew sauce.
• If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little more vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
• To make it more indulgent, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to revive the creaminess.

Serving advice

Serve the creamy linguine with cashews as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or garlic bread. It pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, twirl the linguine pasta onto a serving plate using tongs or a pasta fork. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or cilantro and sprinkle crushed cashews over the top for an added touch of elegance.