Description
These Italian-inspired ‘Drunken Noodles’ offer a fiery kick and a depth of flavor, creating a unique and unforgettable meal. This alcohol-free recipe delivers a symphony of tastes and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200g (7oz) Spaghetti: The base of the dish, choose a high-quality brand.
- 150g (5.3oz) Halal-Certified Chicken Breast, thinly sliced: Lean protein, sliced for quick cooking.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For sautéing and creating a rich sauce base.
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced: Aromatic and essential for the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Freshly Grated Ginger: Adds a subtle heat and vibrant flavor.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Chili-Garlic Sauce: Provides a fiery kick; adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky depth and complexity.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Ground Cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy flavor.
- ½ tsp (2.5ml) Cayenne Pepper: For extra heat, use sparingly.
- 400g (14oz) Canned Diced Tomatoes, no added wine: Forms the rich, tangy sauce base.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Tomato Paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and adds richness.
- ½ cup (120ml) Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp (5ml) Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste: Essential seasoning.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Adds a vibrant, citrusy aroma.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a tangy lift.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Fresh Basil, chopped: Herb garnish for a fragrant note.
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) Grated Pecorino Romano Cheese: Salty, umami-rich garnish.
- 1 Tbsp (15ml) Toasted Pine Nuts: Adds a delightful crunch.
- Optional: A pinch of Red-Pepper Flakes: For extra heat.
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente, reserving pasta water.
- Sear Chicken: Sauté thinly sliced chicken until lightly browned, then set aside.
- Bloom Aromatics: Sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Spice It Up: Cook chili-garlic sauce, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
- Build Sauce: Simmer diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and sugar.
- Combine Chicken & Sauce: Return chicken to sauce, add lemon juice and zest.
- Marry Pasta & Sauce: Toss cooked pasta with sauce until well combined.
- Finish & Serve: Garnish with basil, Pecorino Romano, and pine nuts.
Notes
For a richer sauce, use pasta water to adjust consistency. Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg