Masala Macaroni (Desi Pasta)

Ingredients

• 2.5 cup macaroni approximately 250g (I use mini macaroni)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4-5 cup water for boiling
• 2 tablespoon cooking oil any neutral oil
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 1.5 tablespoon garlic (4-5 large garlic cloves), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes adjust to taste
• ½ cup onion finely chopped
• ½ cup green bell pepper finely chopped
• ½ cup tomato finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper powder
• ⅓ cup tomato ketchup
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoon cilantro chopped

Steps

1. Add water to a pot and bring to a rolling boil.Salt the water and add macaroni to it. Stir for 30 seconds (this makes sure that pasta won't stick). Cook for 6-8 minutes or until al dente. Dont let become too soft. Do check the pasta package for accurate cooking times. Drain and set the pasta aside. You can massage with a teaspoon of oil to avoid sticking while you work on the sauce.
2. Set a wide pan or kadai on medium high stove. Add oil and butter.
3. Once butter melts, add garlic and chilli flakes. Fry for 10-15 seconds taking care that garlic does not burn.
4. Next add the onion and bell pepper together and fry together for 1-2 minutes. Dont let the onion brown too much. Also make sure that the bell pepper doesn't discolor.
5. Add chopped tomatoes next along with oregano and black pepper. Also add the salt and sugar(if using). Note:- You can skip the sugar if you want.We are going to add ketchup later and that will give a sweet hint.
6. Saute the tomatoes till they are little soft. Don't let tomatoes dry out too much.
7. Next add the ketchup along with garam masala. Sauté and let cook for 30-40 seconds.
8. Next add the cooked macaroni and toss very well with the masala. Keep sautéing for good couple minutes.
9. Finish with lemon juice and chopped cilantro.