Grandfather's mustache

Unique Recipe: Grandpa's Mustache - Pasta with Meat and Vegetables

Grandpa's Mustache is a savory recipe that perfectly combines pasta with minced meat, bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite. This delicious dish is not only nourishing but also full of flavor, thanks to the blend of simple yet quality ingredients. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences, transforming it into a completely unique dish.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

For the mustached meatballs:

- 1 kg minced meat (you can use pork, beef, or a mix)
- 1 package of spaghetti (about 400g)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, grated or finely chopped

For the sauce:

- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large ripe tomato
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, pepper, and basil to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing

Preparation:

1. Preparing the mustached meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the minced meat with the eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and grated onion. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous consistency, similar to that of meatballs. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.

2. Forming the meatballs:
From the meat mixture, form small meatballs, making sure to flatten them slightly. Break the spaghetti in half and insert a small bunch into the center of each meatball, so they look like mustaches. Ensure the spaghetti is well secured in the meat, so it doesn't come loose during cooking.

3. Preparing the sauce:
In a square Vitesse pot from Kitchen Shop, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onions until they become translucent. Add the diced bell peppers and continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes. When the vegetables start to brown, add the chopped tomato and crushed garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and basil, then let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes until the tomato breaks down and forms a sauce.

4. Cooking the meatballs:
Add the mustached meatballs to the vegetable sauce and gently stir to avoid breaking their shape. Pour enough water to cover the meatballs and let everything simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. It is important not to raise the temperature too high to allow the meatballs to cook evenly.

5. Finalizing the dish:
After cooking, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and gently mix. This detail will add an extra touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Serving:
Grandpa's Mustache is served hot, directly from the pot, alongside the rich vegetable sauce. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a portion of fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Useful tips:

- Ingredients: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add spices like paprika or chili to the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different types of grated cheese (parmesan or mozzarella) added to the meatballs for extra flavor.
- Variations: Instead of spaghetti, you can use fusilli or penne for a touch of diversity. You can also try substituting minced meat with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Make ahead: The meatballs can be prepared in advance and frozen. This way, you'll have a delicious and quick dish on hand, perfect for busy days.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the minced meat and eggs, providing an excellent source of nutrients. The vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Calories per serving vary depending on the ingredients used, but on average, a serving contains about 600-700 calories, making Grandpa's Mustache a nourishing choice for a lunch or dinner meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use minced meat from other sources?
Yes, you can use minced chicken, turkey, or a combination of pork and beef.

2. What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Spaghetti is the most suitable, but you can also try other pasta shapes depending on your preferences.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chopped hot peppers or a splash of chili sauce to the vegetable sauce for a more intense flavor.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! You can add zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to diversify the flavor and add more nutrients.

Grandpa's Mustache is not just a recipe, but a true culinary experience that will transport you back in time, evoking cherished memories and moments spent with loved ones. By cooking this dish, you will bring joy not only to your table but also to the hearts of those who will savor it. So, put on your apron and let’s bring this delicious recipe to life!