Persian Macaroni

Persian-style ماکارونی macaroni (spaghetti) with ground beef, onion, garlic and tomato sauce is delicious and quick to make. This simple pasta dish is perfect for lunch or dinner any time of the year that your family will love! I usually make this dish with thin spaghetti noodles. However, you can use any type of pasta noodles.

Persian Macaroni (Spaghetti)

Ingredients:
Serves 4

1 pound lean ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
A pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

1 lb thin spaghetti


Method:

1. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat, add onions, saute until translucent. Add the garlic, saute for another 2-3 minutes. Add the turmeric powder, stir. 
2. Add the meat to the skillet, break it into very small pieces, and brown. Stir in tomato paste, cook for 2-3 minutes, add the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and a cup of water. Stir well. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes. 
3. Bring the large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add salt and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy bottom nonstick pot, add some of the pasta, add a large scoop of the meat sauce, then add another layer of the pasta. Building it into the shape of a pyramid. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes over low heat.

Serve with salad shirazi.

Enjoy!