Hearty and Creamy Milk Pasta
Hearty and Creamy Milk Pasta
Rich and Creamy Milk Pasta with Sweet Potato and Potato
Indulge in a comforting and creamy pasta dish made with milk, enriched with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the starchy goodness of potatoes. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
For Boiling Pasta- 1.5L Water
- 100g Pasta (Spaghetti, Linguine, etc.)
- 1 Tbsp Coarse Salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by bringing a large pot of water (about 1.5 liters) to a boil for the pasta. Once boiling, add coarse salt. Generously salting the pasta water is crucial for seasoning the pasta from the inside out, ensuring a flavorful base.
Step 2
While the water heats, thoroughly wash and peel the sweet potato and potato. For this recipe, it’s best not to soak them in water to retain their natural starch, which will help thicken the sauce. Sweet potatoes and potatoes are excellent sources of carbohydrates, making them a filling and nutritious component of any meal.
Step 3
Slice the sweet potato into uniform pieces, about 0.3-0.4 cm thick and cut into elongated shapes. To slice firmer vegetables like sweet potatoes, ensure a good grip on your knife and utilize gravity. Don’t hesitate to enjoy a small piece while you prep – it’s a delicious perk! Slicing them lengthwise helps with even cooking and presentation. If you find it difficult, try angling the knife slightly and pulling towards you to create clean cuts.
Step 4
Once the sweet potato is sliced, set it aside.
Step 5
Similarly, slice the potato into uniform, elongated pieces, about 0.3-0.4 cm thick.
Step 6
Estimate one serving of pasta. A common way to gauge this is by using your thumb and index finger to form a circle; the amount of pasta that fits inside is generally one portion.
Step 7
When the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the pasta, fanning it out so it doesn’t clump together initially. Stir gently to prevent the strands from sticking.
Step 8
Immediately after adding the pasta, stir for about 8 seconds to ensure no strands stick to the bottom of the pot. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat slightly to a strong simmer and cook for approximately 6 minutes. Crucially, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water (pasta broth) before draining; this liquid gold will be used later to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
Step 9
Drain the pasta in a colander to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking. The exact cooking time can vary depending on the pasta type and desired tenderness, typically ranging from 5.5 to 8.5 minutes.
Step 10
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil (2 Tbsp) and sesame oil (1/2 Tbsp). The combination offers a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
Step 11
Add the sliced sweet potato to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes over medium heat, allowing it to soften slightly and release its aroma.
Step 12
Next, add the sliced potato to the skillet and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes. Season lightly with black pepper. Sauté for an additional minute.
Step 13
Drizzle in the oligosaccharide (1 Tbsp) and stir-fry for about 40 seconds. This adds a subtle sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze on the vegetables.
Step 14
Pour in the milk (200ml). This will form the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 15
Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly, stirring occasionally, for about 1 minute. Be careful not to scorch the milk.
Step 16
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Using tongs and a spatula, toss the pasta with the sauce over medium-high heat for about 1 minute and 20 seconds, ensuring every strand is well-coated. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
Step 17
Stir in the red pepper flakes (1/2 Tbsp, if using) for a touch of color and subtle warmth. Continue to cook and reduce the sauce, allowing it to thicken and meld with the vegetables’ natural starch. Adjust the consistency by adding more pasta water if it becomes too thick. The goal is a creamy, coating sauce.
Step 18
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Step 19
Plate the creamy pasta attractively. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, hearty meal!
