Spicy Charred Tomato Spaghetti (Pasta all’Assassina)
Today, I’m bringing you something out-of-this-world delicious that’s definitely not your typical tomato pasta. Introducing Spicy Charred Tomato Pasta, also known as Pasta all’Assassina! This dish is a total game-changer, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
A little backstory: Pasta all’Assassina hails from the charming city of Bari in Southern Italy. It’s a dish that’s been creating buzz for its unique cooking method and its incredible depth of flavor. Unlike traditional pasta dishes where the noodles are boiled separately, here, we cook the pasta directly in the sauce. Yes, you heard that right!
The magic begins with a rich, spicy tomato broth that infuses every single noodle with flavor. As the pasta cooks, the sauce becomes sticky, caramelized, and utterly irresistible. And the best part? Those crunchy, charred bits of pasta that form at the bottom of the pan. They add a delightful texture that makes each bite seriously addicting.
Before we dive into making this masterpiece, let me share a few tips to ensure you nail it every time:
- Heat Your Tomato Broth: This is crucial! Preheating your tomato broth before adding it to the pasta pot helps the noodles cook evenly and absorb all that flavorful goodness without becoming mushy.
- Thin Metal Spatula: Keep one handy. As the pasta cooks and starts to char, a thin metal spatula is perfect for scraping up those delicious, crispy bits. Trust me, you don’t want to leave any of that goodness behind.
- Finish with Good Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Once you’ve plated up your Pasta all’Assassina, don’t forget to drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top. This dish has a thick and clingy sauce, and the olive oil adds a smooth, herby flavor that complements the spicy, caramelized tomatoes perfectly. This is one of those dishes where the olive oil is an ingredient you actually want to taste.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the sauce. It’s a bold mix of tomato paste, passata, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes for that extra kick. As it cooks, the sauce thickens and coats the pasta beautifully, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, Spicy Charred Tomato Pasta is your answer. It’s a dish that stands out, not just for its incredible taste but for the fun and unique cooking experience it offers.
So, gather your ingredients, crank up the heat, and get ready to fall in love with Pasta all’Assassina. Bon appétit!
Spicy Charred Spaghetti (Pasta all’Assassina)
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cup passata (or your favorite tomato sauce)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 lb spaghetti dried
Instructions
- Make your tomato broth, in a medium sauce pan combine 2 1/2 cups passata with 3 cups water and bring to a simmer
- In a large skillet (12-14 inch) over medium heat, heat olive oil, add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until garlic is fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook until it darkens in color to a rich brick toe.
- Now add about 1/2 cup of your warmed tomato broth to your skillet with oil. Place the 1 lb of dried spaghetti in skilled on top of mixture. Add 1 more cup of tomato broth on top of dried noodles. Use a fork to distribute evenly broth in between the pasta.
- Leave the pasta undisturbed for about 3 minutes, until the broth is nearly absorbed. Then add another 1 1/2 cup tomato broth. Use a fork to again distribute the both.
- Repeat this process until about 1 cup of broth remains, a total of 3 times. At this point, use a thin metal spatula to peak underneath the pasta strands. It should being to look crispy and charred. If so, flip pasta over. If not cook increase the heat and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
- Once pasta noodles are softening and flipped add remaining 1 cup of broth. Cook until pasta is al dente.
- Divide pasta among bowls and top with high quality olive oil. Basil and cheese too if that’s your thing!
