Pasta alla Paolina
Category: Pasta Dishes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bucatini | 320g |
| Anchovies in oil | 20g |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Cloves | 3 |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Tomato pulp | 300g |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
| Fresh basil | to taste |
| Breadcrumbs | 100g |
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the spices for the sauce: on a cutting board, crush the cloves using a meat mallet until finely ground.
- In a separate pan, heat a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Once heated, add the whole garlic clove and sautรฉ briefly to release its aroma.
- After the garlic has softened, remove it from the pan, leaving the oil infused with its flavor.
- Add the ground cloves and cinnamon to the oil and mix for a few seconds. Then, pour in the tomato pulp and stir well.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of ground cinnamon, then cover the pan and let it simmer on medium heat for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bucatini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- When the pasta is ready, drain it, reserving a little cooking water, and transfer the pasta into the pan with the sauce.
- Stir the pasta into the sauce, allowing it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, so the pasta absorbs the flavors.
- While the pasta is cooking, toast the breadcrumbs in a dry pan until golden and crunchy.
- Once the pasta is done, plate it and top with the toasted breadcrumbs. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and serve hot.
This comforting and flavorful Pasta alla Paolina is a traditional Italian recipe with a hint of spice from the cinnamon and cloves, balanced by the savory anchovies and fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy family meal!
