Lesotho-style Bottarga Pasta

Ingredients

In this Lesotho-style adaptation, we incorporate local ingredients and flavors to create a unique twist on the traditional Italian dish. The original recipe is modified by using locally sourced tomatoes, onions, and garlic, which infuse the dish with the vibrant flavors of Lesotho. Additionally, we incorporate bottarga, a delicacy commonly found in Italian cuisine, to add a distinct umami taste and texture to the pasta. We alse have the original recipe for Spaghetti con la bottarga, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) spaghetti 250g (8.8 oz) spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive 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
• 50g (1.8 oz) bottarga, grated 50g (1.8 oz) bottarga, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), for garnish
• Grated cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino), for serving Grated cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino), for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook until they start to soften and release their juices.
4. 4.
   Stir in the grated bottarga and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss until well coated with the sauce.
6. 6.
   Serve the Lesotho-style Bottarga Pasta garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bottarga — Make sure to grate the bottarga finely to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
• Experiment with different types of grated cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice can be drizzled over the pasta before serving to add a refreshing citrus twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Lesotho-style Bottarga Pasta as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the pasta with a sprig of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese to enhance its visual appeal.