Pizza-Ghetti with a Central Asian Twist

Ingredients

In this Central Asian adaptation, the traditional American Pizza-Ghetti is transformed by incorporating Central Asian spices and ingredients. The original dish typically features Italian flavors and ingredients, while this version introduces the aromatic spices of Central Asia, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Additionally, the toppings are modified to include Central Asian favorites like bell peppers, onions, and lamb or beef, adding a unique twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pizza-Ghetti, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) spaghetti 250g (8.8 oz) spaghetti
• 2 cups (470ml) tomato sauce 2 cups (470ml) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded 200g (7 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 100g (3.5 oz) Central Asian cheese (such as kashkaval or sulguni), shredded 100g (3.5 oz) Central Asian cheese (such as kashkaval or sulguni), shredded
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) cooked lamb or beef, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) cooked lamb or beef, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
4. 4.
   In a baking dish, spread a layer of the cooked spaghetti.
5. 5.
   Pour half of the spiced tomato sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Central Asian cheese over the sauce.
7. 7.
   Add a layer of bell peppers, onions, and cooked lamb or beef.
8. 8.
   Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, sauce, cheese, and toppings.
9. 9.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spaghetti — Cook the spaghetti until al dente to ensure it retains a slight bite and doesn't become mushy.
• Central Asian cheese — If you can't find Central Asian cheese, you can substitute it with feta or another tangy cheese that melts well.
• Lamb or beef — For a quicker preparation, you can use leftover cooked lamb or beef. Thinly slice it before adding it to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different Central Asian cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Serve with a side of yogurt or sour cream to balance the flavors.
• Customize the toppings to your preference by adding mushrooms, olives, or other vegetables.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.

Serving advice

Serve the Central Asian Pizza-Ghetti hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Central Asian Pizza-Ghetti in a large baking dish, allowing the layers of spaghetti, sauce, cheese, and toppings to be visible. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and onions will make the dish visually appealing.