Masala Mac is a delicious fusion dish that brings together the rich and creamy texture of classic mac and cheese with the bold and spicy flavors of Indian cuisine. This Indo-Western fusion has become a favorite comfort food, perfect for anyone who loves both traditional mac and cheese and the complex, aromatic spices of masala.
In this recipe, we take the familiar comfort of cheesy pasta and give it a flavorful twist by adding a medley of spices and ingredients commonly found in Indian kitchens. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal while exploring new flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for something special for dinner, Masala Mac will surely impress.
Ingredients:
- For the pasta:
- 200g elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Water for boiling
- For the masala sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup milk or cream (for a creamier texture)
- 1 ½ cups grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- A pinch of chaat masala (optional)
- Red chili flakes (optional for added heat)
Instructions:
- Boil the pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and the pasta.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but cooked). Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the masala base:
- Heat butter and oil in a large pan over medium heat. The combination of both butter and oil ensures that the butter doesn’t burn and gives a rich flavor to the dish.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and chopped green chilies. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell of ginger and garlic disappears.
- Create the tomato masala:
- Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook until the oil separates and the mixture thickens (around 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well incorporated and aromatic.
- Combine with cream and cheese:
- Once the tomato masala is cooked, pour in the milk or cream. Stir to combine, letting the mixture simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes to get a smooth sauce.
- Add 1 cup of the grated cheese to the sauce and stir until it melts completely, creating a creamy masala sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Mix in the pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the masala cheese sauce and gently toss until every piece of macaroni is coated with the spicy, cheesy goodness.
- Add garam masala for a final touch of warmth and depth.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves, a sprinkle of chaat masala, and a pinch of red chili flakes if you want extra heat.
- You can also top with the remaining grated cheese and place the pan under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust (optional).
Serving Suggestions:
Masala Mac can be served hot on its own as a meal or paired with a side of garlic naan or buttered toast. It’s a delightful dish for both adults and kids, blending familiar flavors with a kick of Indian spices. If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and unique dish, Masala Mac is the perfect recipe for you!
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Addition: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, paneer cubes, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots.
- Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, substitute butter with oil, cheese with vegan cheese, and milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew milk.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies, or omit them altogether.
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying Masala Mac. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and fusion in one comforting bowl!