There’s something magical about combining the vibrant flavors of African cuisine with the comforting simplicity of pasta. This vegan recipe for African Pasta is a delightful fusion of rich spices, hearty vegetables, and a touch of creamy coconut milk, all served over al dente pasta. Get ready to transport your taste buds to a culinary adventure with every forkful of this aromatic dish.
### African Pasta
#### Ingredients:
– 8 oz of pasta of your choice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 can of coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
#### Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced red bell pepper, diced zucchini, and chickpeas. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
5. Add the ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the coconut milk. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
7. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
9. Serve the African Pasta over the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh cilantro.
This African Pasta dish is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures, perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends and family. The combination of aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and creamy coconut milk creates a harmony that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce your loved ones to the wonderful world of vegan cuisine without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Enjoy this flavorful fusion dish and let the magic of African-inspired flavors elevate your next pasta night!