Greek Style Spaghetti (Makaronia Me Kima): A Mediterranean Take on a Beloved Comfort Meal
If you want to enhance your pasta evening with vibrant Mediterranean tastes, Greek Style Spaghetti, known as Makaronia Me Kima, is the ideal dish to explore. This classic Greek comfort meal merges the richness of a meat sauce with the warm, fragrant spices that define Greek cooking. With only 5 minutes of prep time and a total cooking duration of 25 minutes, this dish is not just tasty but also quick and effortless to whip up—perfect for hectic weeknights or relaxed family meals.
What Is Makaronia Me Kima?
Makaronia Me Kima directly translates to “spaghetti with meat sauce” in Greek. Although it may resemble Italian spaghetti Bolognese, the Greek rendition is distinctly infused with cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, providing it with a warm and subtly sweet flavor profile. This dish is a common favorite in numerous Greek households and is frequently garnished with a hearty sprinkle of grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Key Ingredients
The charm of Makaronia Me Kima lies in its straightforwardness and the rich flavors derived from just a handful of key ingredients:
– Ground Beef: The foundation of the sauce, offering depth and protein.
– Onion and Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that create the base flavor.
– Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes: Formulate a rich, savory sauce.
– Spices: Ground cinnamon, allspice, and cloves bestow the dish with its signature Greek essence.
– Oregano and Bay Leaf: Contribute herbal accents and layers of flavor.
– Salt and Pepper: Crucial for seasoning.
Optional Add-Ins
To personalize your Greek spaghetti, think about incorporating:
– Diced carrots and celery for added crunch and sweetness.
– Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
– Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or balsamic vinegar for a depth of umami.
– Brown sugar to counterbalance acidity.
– Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or basil for a refreshing note.
Cooking Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion becomes tender, approximately 8–10 minutes.
2. Mix in the chopped garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic.
3. Fold in the crushed tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
4. Discard the bay leaf and pour the sauce over your cooked spaghetti or preferred pasta.
Pro Tips
– For a more profound flavor, add a splash of beef broth and allow the sauce to simmer longer.
– This dish tastes even better the following day, making it perfect for meal prep. Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
– Top with grated kefalotyri cheese or Parmesan for an authentic finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
– Calories: 335
– Fat: 23g (Saturated: 8g, Trans: 1g)
– Cholesterol: 80mg
– Sodium: 260mg
– Carbohydrates: 10g (Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 5g)
– Protein: 21g
Serving Suggestions
Makaronia Me Kima pairs splendidly with a refreshing Greek salad, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a more genuine experience, finish it with a sprinkle of grated cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Conclusion
Greek Style Spaghetti (Makaronia Me Kima) is a tasty, comforting creation that brings the spirit of Greek home cooking to your table. With its special mix of spices and hearty components, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re new to Greek dishes or a devoted fan, this quick and gratifying recipe is an essential venture.