Pasta Porteña

Introduction to Pasta Porteña

Pasta Porteña is a delightful Argentine dish that beautifully merges local flavors with traditional Italian cuisine. The dish, often made with pasta, chorizo, and a rich tomato sauce, showcases the culinary fusion commonly found in Buenos Aires, where Italian culture has significantly influenced the local gastronomy. Historically, the influx of Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought a delicious blend of European food traditions to Argentina, and Pasta Porteña is a perfect representation of this gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients

• Pasta - 400g
• Chorizo - 200g
• Tomato sauce - 500ml
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese - 50g, grated
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh basil - for garnish

Preparation

Before we begin cooking, it's essential to have all our ingredients prepared and ready to use to ensure a smooth cooking process. This "mise en place" will help you maintain the flow and enjoy the cooking experience.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by chopping one large onion and mincing three cloves of garlic. Slice the chorizo into thin pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Chorizo

In a large pan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned and crispy. This should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chorizo from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

The Cooking Process

Step 1: Making the Sauce

Add the tomato sauce to the pan with the vegetables. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions or until al dente. Refer to a cooking timer to ensure precision in timing. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve 1/4 cup of the cooking water.

Step 3: Combining Pasta and Sauce

Return the browned chorizo to the pan with the sauce. Add the pasta and toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

How to Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pasta Porteña hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of flavor. Pair it with a glass of Argentine Malbec wine for an authentic dining experience. This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing a taste of Buenos Aires to your table.