Milanese spaghetti

Milanese Spaghetti: A Delicious Journey into the World of Flavors

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for Milanese spaghetti, a savory dish that combines texture, color, and extraordinary flavors. This easy-to-make meal will bring a splash of sunshine to your plate and lighten the atmosphere at your table. Here’s how to achieve a perfect result!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed

To prepare this Milanese spaghetti, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250 grams of spaghetti (choose a quality brand for perfect texture)
- 200 grams of kaiser (you can also use bacon or pancetta, depending on your preference)
- 250 grams of mushrooms (button or wild mushrooms are the most suitable)
- 200 grams of tomato puree (or tomato paste, but puree offers a richer taste)
- 1 large tomato (buy a ripe one for extra flavor)
- 1 onion (white or yellow onion is ideal)
- 2 cloves of garlic (hot and aromatic)
- 1 bay leaf (adds a subtle note of flavor)
- Oregano (about 1 teaspoon, but you can adjust to taste)
- Basil (either fresh or dried, for a fresh taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin olive oil is best)
- 250 ml of water
- Grated cheese (for a delicious topping)

A Brief History of the Recipe

Milanese spaghetti is a delicious combination of simple yet characterful ingredients. Over time, this dish has evolved, borrowing influences from various culinary cultures. Each cook has their own version, and the addition of kaiser or mushrooms adds a burst of flavor, transforming a classic recipe into a true feast.

Step by Step: Cooking Milanese Spaghetti

1. Boiling the spaghetti: Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and salt. When the water begins to boil, add the spaghetti. Boil them according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until they are al dente. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a large skillet, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Chop the onion and garlic finely and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Adding the kaiser: Slice the kaiser into thin pieces and add it to the skillet. Let it fry together with the onion and garlic, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly crispy.

4. The mushrooms and tomato: Add the sliced mushrooms and diced tomato. Mix well and let them cook for 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften.

5. The sauce: Add the tomato puree, water, salt, bay leaf, oregano, and basil. Mix everything and let the sauce simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

6. Finishing the dish: When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet, mixing well to coat it evenly with the sauce. Let it sit on the heat for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Serving: Divide the spaghetti onto plates and sprinkle with grated cheese on top. You can add a few fresh basil leaves for a more appealing look.

Tips and Tricks

- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the ingredients is essential for an exceptional taste. Buy fresh vegetables and look for quality kaiser.
- Customize the sauce: You can add olives or chili peppers for a spicy note. You can also replace the mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
- The secret to a great sauce: Cook the sauce over low heat to allow the flavors to meld. The longer you give it, the tastier it will be!
- Al dente spaghetti: Make sure the spaghetti is slightly firm on the inside, giving it a perfect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy option and adds extra fiber.
- How can I store the sauce for later use? The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
- What drinks pair well with Milanese spaghetti? A dry red wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to complement this dish.

Nutritional Benefits

Milanese spaghetti is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spaghetti provides necessary carbohydrates for energy, while mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals. The kaiser adds protein, and tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants. Additionally, the dish is relatively low in calories, with approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

Possible Variations

- Vegetable spaghetti: Replace the kaiser with tofu or add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy tomato sauce: Add chili flakes for a sauce with a kick.
- Baked spaghetti: After mixing the spaghetti with the sauce, place them in a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes to achieve a golden crust.

I invite you to try this Milanese spaghetti recipe and enjoy every bite. It will surely become a family favorite! If you have any questions or want to share your kitchen experience, feel free to write to me. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 grams of spaghetti, 200 grams of ham, 250 grams of mushrooms (I used chanterelles or forest mushrooms), 200 grams of broth, 1 tomato, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, oregano, basil, 1 bay leaf, 4 tablespoons of oil, 250 ml of water, grated cheese.