Qatari-style Baked Pasta

Ingredients

In this Qatari adaptation of Pasta 'ncasciata, we incorporate Qatari spices and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The original Italian recipe typically uses ingredients like beef, pork, and Italian spices, while our Qatari-style Baked Pasta incorporates lamb or chicken, along with aromatic Qatari spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. The addition of these Qatari flavors transforms the dish into a delightful fusion of Italian and Qatari cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Pasta 'ncasciata, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or chicken, minced 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or chicken, minced
• 500g (1.1 lb) penne pasta 500g (1.1 lb) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
• 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
• 50g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated 50g (1.8 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
• 500ml (2 cups) milk 500ml (2 cups) milk
• 50g (1.8 oz) butter 50g (1.8 oz) butter
• 50g (1.8 oz) all-purpose flour 50g (1.8 oz) all-purpose flour

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the minced lamb or chicken to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. 5.
   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, soaked saffron threads, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. 6.
   In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
7. 7.
   Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
8. 8.
   In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the cooked penne pasta. Top with a layer of the meat sauce, followed by a layer of the béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — Soak the saffron threads in warm water for at least 10 minutes before using to release its vibrant color and aroma.
• Lamb or chicken — Make sure to mince the meat finely for a consistent texture in the dish.
• Crushed tomatoes — Opt for high-quality canned crushed tomatoes for a rich and flavorful sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese — Grate the mozzarella cheese just before using to ensure it melts evenly and creates a gooey topping.
• Béchamel sauce — Whisk the milk into the flour gradually to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat sauce.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a burst of freshness.
• Serve with a side of traditional Qatari pickles for added tanginess.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an equally delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Qatari-style Baked Pasta as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad and warm Arabic bread. The dish pairs well with a refreshing yogurt-based dip, such as tzatziki or raita, to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some saffron threads on top of the baked pasta before serving. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs for a pop of color. Serve the dish in individual portions or present it family-style in a large baking dish.