Whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce is a hearty dish filled with a blend of flavors. This recipe combines the savoriness of the lamb with spices and a rich tomato sauce, all served on a bed of nutritious whole wheat spaghetti. The cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish, making it a satisfying meal that is sure to impress.
The key ingredient that may not be a staple in your pantry is ground cumin. This spice is commonly used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cuisines for its distinctive warm and earthy flavor. You can easily find it in the spice aisle of your local supermarket. Also, you might need to look for whole wheat spaghetti which is healthier than regular spaghetti and adds a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
Ingredients for Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb, Tomato, and Cumin Sauce
Cooking oil: Used for sautéing the onion and browning the lamb. Any neutral-flavored oil will work.
Onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor when sautéed.
Garlic: Provides a pungent flavor that complements the lamb and tomatoes.
Ground lamb: Tender and flavorful meat that forms the base of the sauce.
Ground cumin: Spicy, earthy spice that adds depth to the sauce.
Tomatoes in thick puree: Provides a rich and tangy base for the sauce.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Whole wheat spaghetti: Nutritious pasta that stands up well to the hearty sauce.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
Fresh mint or parsley: Gives a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
One reader, Charmion Maples says:
This whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the whole wheat spaghetti adds a delightful nuttiness. The lamb is tender and juicy, and the cumin gives the sauce a warm, aromatic kick. It's a must-try for any pasta lover!
Cooking Techniques for Perfecting This Spaghetti Recipe
How to sauté the lamb: In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and the ground lamb. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 3 minutes.
How to simmer the sauce: After adding the cumin, tomatoes, and salt to the lamb, cover the pan and simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
How to cook the whole wheat spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the whole wheat spaghetti until just done, about 15 minutes. Then drain the pasta.
How to toss the pasta with the sauce: After draining the pasta, toss it with the prepared lamb and tomato sauce, along with the fresh ground black pepper and chopped mint or parsley.
How To Make Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb, Tomato, and Cumin Sauce
Add a Middle-Eastern flair to your pasta meal with this whole wheat spaghetti dish! It’s packed with tender lamb and hearty seasonings for a filling meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspcooking oil
- 1onion
- 2garlic cloves
- 1lbground lamb
- 1tbspground cumin
- 1½cupstomatoes in thick puree,(one 16 oz can), canned, crushed
- 1¾tspsalt
- ¾lbwhole wheat spaghetti
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- ⅓canfresh mint,or parsley, chopped
Instructions
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In a large frying pan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
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Add the garlic and then the lamb. Cook for about 3 minutes until the meat is no longer pink. Stir in the cumin, tomatoes and salt.
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Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the spaghetti for about 15 minutes, until just done.
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Drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce, pepper and mint.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 708.96kcal
- Fat: 35.23g
- Saturated Fat: 12.35g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.72g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.65g
- Carbohydrates: 70.30g
- Fiber: 1.48g
- Sugar: 2.85g
- Protein: 32.46g
- Cholesterol: 82.78mg
- Sodium: 688.22mg
- Calcium: 83.63mg
- Potassium: 650.48mg
- Iron: 6.12mg
- Vitamin A: 24.55µg
- Vitamin C: 10.55mg
Expert Advice for Mastering the Cumin Sauce
When cooking the lamb, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces as it cooks. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the garlic, onion, and cumin more effectively. Additionally, when adding the whole wheat spaghetti to the sauce, ensure that it's well drained to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery. If desired, you can reserve some of the pasta water to adjust the consistency of your sauce. Lastly, don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. The salt and fresh ground black pepper can be adjusted to your preference.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a large, deep skillet to cook the sauce and pasta together, saving time on washing up.
Multitask: While the sauce simmers, use that time to cook the pasta, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the mess and make the post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb, Tomato, and Cumin Sauce Recipe
whole wheat spaghetti - Substitute with brown rice spaghetti: Brown rice spaghetti is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar texture and taste to whole wheat spaghetti, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
ground lamb - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef can be used as a substitute for lamb, providing a similar rich flavor and texture to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the recipe.
tomatoes in thick puree - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomatoes in thick puree, providing a similar consistency and flavor to the sauce.
whole wheat spaghetti - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles can be used as a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to whole wheat spaghetti, adding a fresh and light element to the dish.
ground lamb - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to lamb, offering a lighter flavor while still providing a satisfying protein component to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground paprika: Ground paprika can be used as a substitute for cumin, adding a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the sauce.
whole wheat spaghetti - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash can be used as a low-carb alternative to whole wheat spaghetti, providing a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a noodle-like texture to the dish.
ground lamb - Substitute with lentils: Cooked lentils can be used as a vegetarian alternative to ground lamb, offering a hearty and protein-rich component to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground turmeric: Ground turmeric can be used as a substitute for cumin, adding a warm and earthy flavor to the sauce.
How to Plate and Present This Delicious Pasta Dish
Elevate the plating: Arrange the whole wheat spaghetti in a nest-like shape on the plate, creating a visually appealing base for the lamb and tomato sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh mint or parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the earthy tones of the whole wheat spaghetti and the rich colors of the lamb and tomato sauce, enhancing the overall visual presentation.
Create height and dimension: Place the spaghetti and lamb sauce in a way that creates varying levels on the plate, adding visual interest and sophistication to the dish.
Use negative space: Allow some of the plate to remain uncovered, using the concept of negative space to draw attention to the carefully arranged components of the dish.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the quality of the ingredients by arranging them thoughtfully on the plate, ensuring that each element is presented with intention and care.
Add a finishing touch: Drizzle a hint of extra virgin olive oil over the dish just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spaghetti with Lamb Sauce
- Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, stewing, or blanching ingredients.
- Cooking oil: A liquid fat used for frying, sautéing, and flavoring dishes.
- Wooden spoon: A utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting food during cooking.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations used for draining liquids from food.
- Grater: A tool used to shred or grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing food.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of liquid or dry ingredients.
- Measuring cup: A container used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting foods.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
- Pasta pot: A large, deep pot with a strainer insert designed specifically for cooking pasta.
- Pasta fork: A utensil with long, curved tines used for serving and twirling pasta.
- Wine glass: A stemmed glass used for serving and enjoying wine.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Leftover Spaghetti
Let the whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container.
- Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator.
- The dish will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
To freeze:
- Divide the cooled spaghetti and sauce into individual serving portions.
- Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing.
- The whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from the refrigerator:
- Place the desired portion of pasta and sauce in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
To reheat from frozen:
- Remove the frozen spaghetti and sauce from the container or bag and place it in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover the dish loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- You can also thaw the frozen dish in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop as described above.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Pasta
Reheat the whole wheat spaghetti and lamb sauce in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or tomato sauce to loosen it up. Heat until the pasta and sauce are warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover whole wheat spaghetti and lamb sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta and sauce are heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on the amount of leftovers and the power of your microwave.
If you have a bit more time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover whole wheat spaghetti and lamb sauce to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta and sauce are heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a crispy texture.
For a crispy twist, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the leftover whole wheat spaghetti and lamb sauce to the skillet and spread it out evenly. Allow the pasta to crisp up on the bottom for 3-4 minutes, then stir and continue cooking until the pasta and sauce are heated through and the desired level of crispiness is achieved.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the whole wheat spaghetti and lamb sauce before serving. If needed, adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt, a crack of black pepper, or a sprinkle of fresh mint or parsley to brighten up the flavors.
Interesting Trivia About Spaghetti and Lamb
The dish is a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, combining the richness of lamb with the aromatic cumin and the freshness of tomatoes and herbs. This recipe is a great way to introduce whole wheat spaghetti into your diet, providing a healthier alternative to traditional pasta. Additionally, the use of ground lamb adds a unique and savory twist to the dish, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
Budget-Friendly: Making This Spaghetti Dish at Home
This whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of ground lamb may increase the overall cost, but the dish offers substantial portions and nutritional value. The cumin and tomato ingredients are relatively affordable, balancing the overall cost. The dish's versatility and potential for leftovers contribute to its cost-effectiveness. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost: $20-25 USD for a household of 4 people.
Is This Spaghetti Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, using whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular pasta provides more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The tomatoes in the sauce offer a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, the recipe includes onion and garlic, which have potential health benefits such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
However, there are some areas where the recipe could be improved to make it healthier. The use of ground lamb, while flavorful, is relatively high in saturated fat compared to leaner protein options. The recipe also calls for a significant amount of salt, which could be reduced to help limit sodium intake.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the ground lamb with a leaner protein, such as ground turkey or chicken, to reduce the overall fat content
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the sauce by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to boost the nutrient profile and fiber content
- Reduce the salt content by using low-sodium tomatoes and adjusting the added salt to taste
- Include a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and provide additional nutrients
- Use a moderate amount of olive oil instead of the generic cooking oil mentioned in the recipe, as olive oil contains healthier monounsaturated fats
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious flavors. The whole wheat pasta, vegetables, and lean proteins create a well-rounded meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Our Editor's Opinion on This Flavorful Pasta Recipe
This whole wheat spaghetti with lamb, tomato, and cumin sauce recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The earthy whole wheat spaghetti complements the rich and savory lamb, while the aromatic cumin adds depth to the dish. The use of fresh mint or parsley at the end brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch. The wine recommendation is spot on, as a full-bodied red wine would perfectly complement the robust flavors of the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and well-balanced dining experience.
Enhance Your Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb, Tomato, and Cumin Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Lamb, Tomato, and Cumin Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any lamb enthusiast. The aromatic blend of cumin and tomatoes infuses the dish with rich, savory notes, while the use of whole wheat spaghetti adds a wholesome, nutty undertone. The addition of mint or parsley provides a refreshing finish, elevating the overall dining experience. Trust in the harmonious combination of these quality ingredients to deliver a memorable and satisfying meal.
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