Tarako Cream Pasta
Delightful Fusion, and Kid’s All-Time Favorite
When it comes to pleasing my children's taste buds, one dish stands above the rest as their all-time favorite: "Puchi Puchi Pasta."
Every time I ask them what kind of pasta they want for dinner, their unanimous response brings a smile to my face. Puchi puchi, a Japanese onomatopoeic term describing the delightful popping sensation in your mouth, perfectly captures the essence of this dish. Join me for the mouthwatering delight that has become a beloved staple in our household.
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 15 min
Ingredients:
3-4 servings spaghetti
1 pc tarako, cod roe (or mentaiko)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta.
Using a fork or spoon, separate the Tarako sacs from the membrane and set add heavy cream and soy sauce stir well
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and add butter. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
Tarako and Mentaiko : Tarako refers to salted cod roe, which is typically massaged with salt and dried, preserving its natural flavors and texture. The name "Tarako" stems from the combination of the Japanese words "tara" (cod) and "ko" (child), alluding to the small, delicate eggs found within. Tarako is commonly used in Japanese cuisine, adding a burst of oceanic umami to various dishes.
Mentaiko, on the other hand, undergoes an additional step in its preparation. After the roe is salted, it is marinated in a special blend of seasonings, including chili peppers, giving it a distinctive spicy kick.
The idea of incorporating Tarako or Mentaiko into pasta emerged in Japan, where Italian cuisine holds a special place in the hearts of many. Chefs and home cooks alike sought to create a dish that combined the comforting familiarity of pasta with the unique flavors of these sea treasures.
The creamy element in Tarako cream pasta is achieved by infusing heavy cream with the briny essence of Tarako or the spicy kick of Mentaiko. This rich sauce, when combined with al dente pasta, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
