Mentaiko Pasta Recipe: Spicy, Delicious, and Easy to Make
Introduction
Mentaiko pasta is a popular Japanese-Italian fusion dish that combines the umami flavors of mentaiko (spicy marinated pollock roe) with creamy pasta. It’s a delightful and satisfying dish that is quick and easy to make. In this blog post, we will share a delicious mentaiko pasta recipe that you can recreate at home.
Ingredients
To make mentaiko pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 200 grams of spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 2-3 mentaiko (spicy pollock roe) sacs
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Here’s how to make mentaiko pasta:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the mentaiko: Use a small knife to cut open the mentaiko sacs and remove the roe. Place the mentaiko roe in a bowl and set aside.
Melt the butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the mentaiko: Add the mentaiko roe to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and butter.
Cook the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Cook the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the sauce until evenly coated.
Season and garnish: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined.
Serve: Transfer the mentaiko pasta to serving plates and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Spaghetti is the most commonly used pasta for mentaiko pasta, but you can experiment with different shapes and varieties to suit your taste.
Where can I find mentaiko?
Mentaiko can be found in Japanese grocery stores or in the seafood section of select supermarkets. You may also be able to find it online or at specialty food stores.
Is mentaiko spicy?
Yes, mentaiko is typically spicy. The spice level can vary depending on the brand and type of mentaiko you purchase. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of mentaiko in the recipe or choose a less spicy variety.
Can I add other ingredients to the mentaiko pasta?
Absolutely! Mentaiko pasta is versatile, and you can customize it by adding ingredients such as shrimp, mushrooms, or seaweed. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures.
How long can I store leftover mentaiko pasta?
Leftover mentaiko pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best enjoyed fresh.
