Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti)
Equipment
- Blender
- Normal Kitchen Utensils
Ingredients
- 1 Lb Spaghetti
- 4-5 Poblano Peppers Roughly 3/4 Lb.
- 1 Bunch Cilantro Leaves Only
- 1/2 Medium Onion White or Yellow
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1 C Crema Mexicana
- 8 Oz. Cream Cheese
- 3-4 Cloves Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Chicken Bouillon
- 3/4 C Milk
- 1-2 Jalapeño or Serrano Peppers (Optional) For Heat
- Cotija Cheese For Garnish
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Roast the poblanos. If using the (optional) jalapeños or serranos, roast those as well. You can roast them over direct fire (my favorite method) if you have a gas range or a fire pit. You can also broil them in the oven (for around 10 minutes) or set them directly onto a hot grill or pan (without oil). The goal is to quickly char and blacken the skin. Only char the skin. Don't burn the pepper inside.4-5 Poblano Peppers, 1-2 Jalapeño or Serrano Peppers
- Add the roasted peppers to a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes.
- While the roasted peppers steam, set a large pot of water to boil. Once boiling, add 1-2 Tbsp of salt and drop in your spaghetti. Cook per package directions.1 Lb Spaghetti
- When the peppers are steamed, remove the charred skin, seeds and stems.
- Blend the peppers, onion, crema, cream cheese, garlic, bouillon, and milk until smooth. This is your sauce.1 Bunch Cilantro, 1/2 Medium Onion, 1 C Crema Mexicana, 8 Oz. Cream Cheese, 3-4 Cloves Garlic, 1 Tbsp Chicken Bouillon, 3/4 C Milk
- When the pasta has finished boiling, reserve 1/2 C of the pasta water and strain it. Return it to the pot and stir in the butter to coat the pasta.1 Tbsp Butter
- Pour your sauce into a pot over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Salt and Pepper to Taste
- Once the sauce is starting to bubble, combine it with the pasta. Check for thickness of the sauce. I like it to match a marinara sauce, but it is your preference. If too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water (1-2 Tbsp at a time). If too thin, let it cook for a minute or two.
- Season one more time for salt and pepper, then serve topped with cotija cheese, cilantro leaves and maybe a slice of jalapeño or two.Cotija Cheese
A Taste of Mexico: Espagueti Verde
Espagueti Verde, or “green spaghetti,” brings a delightful fusion of Mexican flavors to your table. This dish, characterized by its vibrant green sauce, combines creamy textures with a hint of spice, making it a favorite in many Mexican households.
The Origins of Espagueti Verde
This dish traces back to the influence of Italian immigrants in Mexico. Italians introduced pasta to Mexican cuisine, and locals soon began to put their own spin on it. Traditional Italian spaghetti with tomato sauce morphed into a rich, creamy pasta dish featuring local ingredients. Espagueti Verde, with its green sauce made from poblano peppers, cilantro, and cream embodies this culinary blend.
Fun Facts about Green Spaghetti
- Poblano Peppers: The star of the green sauce is the poblano pepper. Poblano peppers are mild, with a rich, earthy flavor. They are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are often used in dishes like chiles rellenos and mole sauce.
- Health Benefits: The green sauce isn’t just delicious; it’s nutritious too! Poblano peppers are high in vitamins A and C, which boost the immune system. Cilantro adds a fresh flavor and is known for its detoxifying properties.
- Cultural Fusion: Green spaghetti showcases the beautiful fusion of Italian and Mexican culinary traditions. This dish reflects the adaptability and creativity of Mexican cooks who love to blend different flavors and ingredients.
Making Espagueti Verde Your Own
One of the joys of this dish is its versatility. For a spicier kick, add a jalapeño to the sauce. Want a richer texture? Mix in some extra cream cheese or goat cheese. You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Perfect Pairings
Espagueti Verde pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a simple salad. It also works well as a side dish for Mexican favorites like enchiladas or tacos. For a refreshing drink to accompany your meal, try a glass of horchata or a cold cerveza.
Espagueti Verde not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine. By blending traditional and modern flavors, this dish brings a unique twist to the classic spaghetti, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure with green spaghetti and savor the vibrant flavors of Mexico!
And when you’re ready, further your Mexican pasta journey with Sopa De Conchas and Sopa Seca de Fideo.
Some content generated with the help of ChatGPT | OpenAI: https://www.openai.com/