Desi-Style Macaroni Pasta Ready in Minutes: Cooking Expert Poonam Devnani Shares the Quick Cooker Method

Cooking pasta often involves the extra hassle of boiling, draining, and then preparing a separate sauce—a process that can be time-consuming. But culinary expert Poonam Devnani has shared a simple trick to make desi-style macaroni pasta in a pressure cooker in just two whistles, saving time without compromising on flavor.

Quick and Tasty for Snacks or Lunchboxes
If you’re looking for a fast yet delicious snack for evening tea or a tiffin treat for kids, this desi-style macaroni pasta is a perfect option. Devnani’s method eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, making cooking faster and cleanup easier.

Step 1: Preparing the Tadka and Vegetables
Start by heating oil in a pressure cooker and sautéing finely chopped garlic, onions, green chilies, and ginger until lightly golden. Add chopped tomatoes and cook thoroughly. To make the pasta colorful and nutritious, incorporate diced bell peppers in three colors and finely chopped carrots, making it both visually appealing and healthy.

Step 2: Using the Right Desi Spices
To give macaroni an authentic “desi touch,” spices are key. After the tomatoes are cooked, add Kashmiri red chili, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and black pepper. These spices provide a rich color and a flavorful, mildly spicy taste.

Step 3: Balancing the Flavors
To balance the spice, Devnani suggests adding a small pinch of sugar, unless using tomato sauce, which already provides sweetness. Adding a little butter at this stage gives the pasta a creamy texture and enhances the overall taste.

Step 4: Water Ratio and Cooking Process
The most critical step is the water-to-pasta ratio. Use exactly 2 cups of water for 2 cups of macaroni to prevent stickiness. Add salt to taste, close the cooker, and cook on medium heat for two whistles. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly and remains juicy inside.

Step 5: Final Touch with Cheese and Coriander
Once the pressure naturally releases, open the lid and mix in a generous amount of cheese. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and cover for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and flavors to blend. The result is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying desi-style macaroni pasta ready in minutes.

Disclaimer: The claims in this article are based on Poonam Devnani’s Instagram posts and online sources. Navbharat Times does not take responsibility for independent verification of the recipe.