Desi Masala Macaroni Recipe – Indian-Style Spicy Pasta Delight

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Macaroni might be an Italian classic, but we all know that nothing beats the kick of desi spices! This Indian-style macaroni is spicy, tangy, and packed with veggies – perfect for a quick dinner, a kid-friendly lunchbox, or even a lazy weekend comfort meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this is your go-to recipe for a delicious Indo-fusion dish.

📝 Ingredients

For 2–3 servings:

  • 1½ cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)

  • 1 tablespoon oil or butter

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)

  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

  • 1 medium tomato, chopped

  • ½ cup capsicum (green bell pepper), chopped

  • ½ cup carrots, finely chopped

  • ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

  • Salt to taste

  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon garam masala

  • ½ teaspoon pav bhaji masala (optional, but recommended)

  • 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (for a hint of sweetness)

  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

  • Grated cheese (optional topping)

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente (soft but with a slight bite), according to package instructions.

  3. Drain and set aside. You can drizzle a little oil to keep it from sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

  1. Heat oil or butter in a pan on medium heat.

  2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

  3. Add chopped onions and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn golden.

  4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste. Cook until the raw smell goes away.

  5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

Step 3: Spice it Up

  1. Add carrots, capsicum, and peas. Sauté for 3–4 minutes (or longer if you want softer veggies).

  2. Sprinkle salt, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and pav bhaji masala.

  3. Mix well and cook for a couple more minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Mix in Macaroni

  1. Add the boiled macaroni to the veggie masala.

  2. Add tomato ketchup and toss everything together so the pasta is well coated.

  3. Cook for another 2–3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

🧀 Optional Add-ons

  • Top with grated cheese for a cheesy twist.

  • Add paneer cubes or cooked chicken for protein.

  • Squeeze some fresh lemon juice for a tangy zing.

🌿 Garnish & Serve

  • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander.

  • Serve hot with a side of green chutney, ketchup, or just enjoy it as is!

💡 Tips

  • Want it more saucy? Add 2 tablespoons of pureed tomatoes or a bit of cream.

  • For a South Indian flair, add curry leaves during tempering.

  • Make it healthier with more veggies like corn, broccoli, or spinach.

Desi Macaroni is the perfect blend of comfort and spice – a dish that speaks the universal language of “maa ke haath ka khana” with a global twist. Try it once, and it might just become your favorite way to eat pasta

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