Chilli Capsicum Macaroni Recipe
A delicious fusion of flavors, this Chilli Capsicum Macaroni recipe brings together the comfort of classic pasta with the tangy heat of chili, making it a perfect vegetarian lunch option. Combining the crunch of green bell peppers (capsicum) with the mild heat of green chilies, this dish is a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Paired with soy sauce, red chili sauce, and a hint of coriander, the result is a simple, yet vibrant dish that is quick and easy to make, ideal for busy days when you want something flavorful but comforting.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Macaroni pasta | 1 cup |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1 (chopped) |
| Onion | 1 (chopped) |
| Green Chillies | 3 (chopped) |
| Sunflower Oil | As required |
| Garlic | 5-6 cloves (finely chopped) |
| Tomato | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Tomato Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 tablespoons (finely chopped) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~7g |
| Carbohydrates | ~45g |
| Fat | ~7g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
| Fiber | ~3g |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Macaroni:
Begin by cooking the macaroni according to the packet instructions in a saucepan. Once cooked, drain the water and add 2 teaspoons of oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Stir the macaroni well to coat it with the oil. -
-
Prepare the Flavor Base:
Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma. -
Sauté Vegetables:
Add the chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions soften. Then, add the green bell pepper (capsicum) cubes and continue to sauté for another minute. -
Add Sauces and Tomatoes:
Stir in the red chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and chopped tomatoes. Mix everything well and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to combine. -
Combine with Macaroni:
Now, add the cooked macaroni to the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the macaroni is well coated with the sauce and vegetables. -
Season and Garnish:
Add salt to taste, followed by red chili flakes for an extra kick of heat. Stir in the finely chopped coriander leaves for a fresh burst of flavor. Let everything cook together for a few more seconds. -
Serve:
Serve the Chilli Capsicum Macaroni hot as a standalone dish or pair it with a Smoked Tofu and Grilled Vegetable Salad for a balanced and fulfilling lunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Chilli Capsicum Macaroni can be served as a main dish or as a side to complement grilled vegetables or protein-rich dishes like tofu. Its vibrant flavors make it perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Add a sprinkle of extra red chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit more heat!
Tips for the Perfect Chilli Capsicum Macaroni:
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili flakes based on your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce the number of chilies.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to make the dish more hearty.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of cream or a handful of grated cheese for a creamy twist to this dish.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari.
This Chilli Capsicum Macaroni is sure to become a family favorite with its bold flavors and quick preparation time. Whether for a weekday lunch or a weekend gathering, it offers a delightful combination of spice and comfort that everyone will enjoy.
