Minced Meat Macaroni

I know you were starting to think my blog was pure vegetarian, but it’s not. It’s just that vegetables are so much more versatile than meat and they are so much easier to experiment with than meat. So to break that veggie cycle I seem to have going on, today's recipe’s main ingredient is Minced Meat (beef).

This is an Indian/Keralite take on our western world bolognese recipe. It’s definitely worth a try and its one of those recipes where everyone in the family can enjoy rather than it being just for the kids.  You can adjust the spice according to your bubs taste.

This is the only way I get some red meat into my little man these days. Do try it, I’m sure you're kids will love you for it. :)

Minced Meat Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ teaspoon kashmiri chilli powder
• I - 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 500g lean beef mince
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• ½ cup water
• 2 - 3 tablespoons cream cheese (optional)
• 375g macaroni
• Pinch of Italian herbs
• Grated Parmesan, to serve (optional)

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until onion is soft.

3. Add in the chilli, coriander and turmeric powders and saute until the raw smell disappears.

4. Add the beef and stir until brown, breaking up any large lumps.

5. Add the carrot, zucchini and tomato paste and stir for 5 minutes.

6. Stir in the tomatoes, water and cream cheese and simmer covered for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the packet. Drain mix with minced meat sauce. Garnish with Italian herbs and parmesan cheese, if liked.

 Note:

This minced meat sauce is very versatile. Serve with spaghetti, spoon over potatoes or even just add in some red kidney beans for a tasty side for rice or chapatti.