π Macaroni and Tomato
Macaroni and tomato is a simple, comforting dish made with macaroni pasta and a tomato-based sauce. Itβs popular in West African cuisine, especially in countries like Nigeria and Ghana, where itβs often cooked with vegetables, spices, and sometimes proteins like chicken, fish, or sausage.
π₯ Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2β3 ripe tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1β2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- Β½ tsp chili powder or fresh chili (optional)
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: cooked chicken, sausage, or fish
π¨βπ³ How to Make It
- Cook the macaroni
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the tomato sauce
- Blend or finely chop tomatoes.
- Heat oil in a pan and sautΓ© onion and garlic until soft.
- Add tomatoes, thyme, chili, salt, and pepper.
- Cook 10β15 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Combine
- Add cooked macaroni to the tomato sauce.
- Stir well to coat the pasta.
- Add any optional protein or vegetables.
- Simmer
Cook together for 5 minutes so flavors meld.
π½οΈ Serving Ideas
- Serve with fried plantains π
- Top with grated cheese π§
- Pair with a green salad π₯
π‘ Tip: For a richer flavor, roast the tomatoes before blending or add a bit of tomato paste to intensify the sauce.
If you want, I can also show you:
- π₯ West African-style macaroni and tomato recipe
- π₯ Macaroni and tomato with protein variations
- π How to make a quick 20-minute version