Rich & Savory Mentaiko Pasta Recipe
Homemade Mentaiko Pasta: An Elegant Dish Made Easy
Discover the exquisite flavor of Mentaiko (spicy cod roe) perfectly blended with pasta in this delicious recipe. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion.
Main Ingredients- Spaghetti for 2 servings
- 1/2 Onion
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 piece Mentaiko (spicy cod roe)
- A pinch of shredded seaweed (garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook for approximately 8 minutes, or about 1 minute less than the package instructions. Cooking it slightly ‘al dente’ is key to maintaining a pleasant texture.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, thinly slice the garlic and finely shred the onion. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this develops a beautiful aroma.
Step 3
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the shredded onion to the pan. Increase the heat to medium and sauté until the onions become translucent and sweet. This step is crucial for bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions.
Step 4
When the onions are nicely softened and translucent, drain the cooked spaghetti and add it directly to the pan. Toss the pasta with the garlic, onions, and olive oil for 1-2 minutes, coating the noodles evenly. This helps the sauce adhere better.
Step 5
Now it’s time for the Mentaiko. Carefully remove the thin membrane from the Mentaiko and gently scrape out the roe with a fork or spoon. Add the Mentaiko to the pan and quickly stir-fry it with the pasta. Avoid overcooking at this stage to preserve its delicate texture and flavor.
Step 6
Finally, season the pasta. Mentaiko is naturally salty, so taste as you go. Add a pinch of black pepper and, if necessary, a very small amount of salt to adjust the seasoning. If it tastes a little dry, a drizzle more of olive oil can enhance the richness.
Step 7
Transfer the finished Mentaiko pasta to a serving plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of shredded seaweed for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your delicious homemade Mentaiko Pasta!
