Espaguetis a la Criolla

Espaguetis a la Criolla is a traditional Latin American dish that combines the flavors and ingredients from the countryside, providing a rich and satisfying meal. Originally from the Caribbean coastal regions, this dish is beloved for its vivid flavors and comforting taste. As cultures merged throughout history, many unique adaptations were created, making Espaguetis a la Criolla a versatile option for various taste preferences. Its bold combination of spices, bell peppers, and tomatoes reflects the Creole blend of European and African culinary traditions that mark so much of Caribbean cuisine.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti - 500g
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion, diced - 1 large
• Bell Pepper, chopped - 1 large
• Garlic Cloves, minced - 3 cloves
• Tomatoes, diced - 4 medium
• Ground Beef - 300g
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Smoked Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan Cheese, grated - 50g

Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your fresh produce and preparing them. Chop the bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes. Mince the garlic cloves. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of our sauce.

2. Cooking the Spaghetti

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti until it reaches al dente texture, according to the instructions on the package. This should usually take around 8-10 minutes. You can use a cooking timer to ensure precision. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set aside.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to warm up. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Following this, add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Mix in the chopped bell pepper and stir well, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2 minutes.

4. Cooking the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked by breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

5. Simmering the Sauce

Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing the tomatoes to break down and create a rich sauce. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use a cooking timer to keep track of time.

6. Combining and Serving

Once the sauce is thickened to your preference, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoying Espaguetis a la Criolla

Serve your Espaguetis a la Criolla hot, with an additional sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complement its rich and savory profile. The harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes this uniquely Criollo dish both hearty and flavorful, perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or for a comforting solo meal. Bon appétit!