Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup hopped onion
1/2 lb ground chicken ( or Lamb or Beef Sausage )
1 -2 jalapeno , deseeded and finely chopped ( or Pickled Peperoncinis )
2 sprigs thyme
handful of chopped flat leaf parsley
salt & pepper
3 cups plain yoghurt
3 -4 minced large garlic cloves
2 teaspoons finely chopped mint leaves
salt
5 tablespoons butter or 5 tablespoons margarine
3/4 teaspoon paprika
1 pinch cayenne
1 lb pasta ( Bowties work well to hold the meat and sauce )
Originating in Turkey, this traditional pasta dish is often served at family meals and special occasions. It offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, with perfectly spiced ground meat and a cooling yoghurt mint sauce. The use of jalapenos or pickled peperoncinis adds heat and depth of flavor to the meat sauce. This dish is also a great base for adding extra veggies, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to enhance the nutritional value and balance the flavors. It can be made with ground chicken, lamb or beef sausage to suit personal taste and dietary restrictions. Enjoy this flavorful and easy meal on a weeknight or for a special occasion.

Instructions

1.In a large pan over medium heat, cook the chopped onions in olive oil until soft and translucent.
2.Add the ground chicken (or lamb or beef sausage) to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the finely chopped jalapenos (or pickled peperoncinis), thyme, chopped parsley, and salt & pepper to taste. Set the meat aside.
3.In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yoghurt, minced garlic, chopped mint leaves, and a pinch of salt.
4.In the same pan used to cook the meat, melt the butter or margarine over low heat. Add the paprika and cayenne, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and add the meat back to the sauce.
5.Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and add it to the pan with the meat and sauce.
6.Serve the pasta topped with generous helpings of the yoghurt mint sauce.

PROS

Filled with flavor, spice and fresh herbs, this dish is a unique take on traditional pasta dishes.

It’s easy to customize with your choice of ground meat and the level of spice that suits your taste.

The yoghurt mint sauce adds creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the meat and sauce.

CONS

While this dish is packed with flavor, it is also high in fat and calories due to the butter, meat, and yoghurt.
Enjoy in moderation and balance with lighter meals throughout the day.

Cooking the meat and pasta together may result in a slightly oily final dish.
Be sure to drain excess liquid before serving.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this dish isn’t exactly a health food, it can still pack a nutritional punch when combined with plenty of fresh veggies and served in reasonable portions.
The yoghurt in the sauce provides probiotics for gut health and protein for muscle health.
The ground meat provides iron and zinc for immune system and heart health.
Cayenne pepper has been linked to metabolism boosting and pain relief, while mint leaf may soothe digestion and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

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