Mentaiko Alfredo Pasta
Cream based pasta infused with Japanese flavors
- 450 g cooked spaghetti
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (15 ml)
- 1/2 pc medium onion (40 g)
- 2 pcs cloves garlic (10 g)
- 1 cup NESTLÉ® All Purpose Cream (250 g)
- 1/4 cup CARNATION® Everyday Creamer (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup pasta water (60 ml)
- 1 tsp MAGGI® Professional Chicken Stock (3.33 g)
- 1 tsp MAGGI® Professional Magic Sarap (2.66 g)
- 2 tsp MAGGI® Professional Liquid Seasoning (10 ml)
- 80 g tarako / mentaiko
- 28 g butter
- Nori strips (as needed)
- Katsuboshi (as needed)
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1In a saute pan, saute the onion and garlic in cooking oil.
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2When soft and translucent, add the NESTLÉ® All Purpose Cream and CARNATION Everyday Creamer.
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3Season with MAGGI Professional Chicken Stock, MAGGI® Professional Magic Sarap, and MAGGI® Professional Liquid Seasoning. Stir in the pasta and toss until the sauce coats the pasta.
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4Add the tarako / mentaiko (remove the sac and use the eggs only).
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5Turn off heat and add the butter and toss until the butter melts. Plate and top with nori strips and katsuboshi.
This Mentaiko Alfredo Pasta recipe blends Japanese-inspired umami with the creamy comfort of a classic Alfredo sauce, creating a rich and flavorful fusion dish. Silky, savory, and lightly spicy, this mentaiko pasta recipe delivers an indulgent bite in every twirl—making it an excellent choice for cafés, restaurants, and home cooks looking to elevate their pasta offerings. Whether paired with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine, the creamy mentaiko sauce coats each strand beautifully for a satisfying and memorable dish.
What is Mentaiko?
Mentaiko is salted and marinated pollock or cod roe, often cured with chili for a mild heat and deep ocean-briny flavor. Common in Japanese cuisine, mentaiko adds rich umami to even the simplest recipes. Nutritionally, it is high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins B12 and D. Since it is cured and naturally salty, chefs should season this mentaiko Alfredo pasta recipe carefully to maintain balance and achieve the perfect flavor profile.
Mentaiko’s versatility makes it a favorite ingredient across various dishes such as rice bowls, toast, tamago, and noodles. In pasta, it shines when gently folded into the sauce off the heat, helping preserve its delicate texture. This technique is essential for achieving the smooth, velvety consistency expected from a high-quality mentaiko spaghetti recipe. Adding a touch of lemon juice or nori strips can further enhance the dish’s depth and visual appeal.
Whether you’re creating a signature menu item or a simple yet special meal at home, this Mentaiko Alfredo Pasta recipe offers a flavorful fusion experience that appeals to diners seeking comfort, creativity, and global inspiration.