Tallarines con Tuco

Name: Tallarines con Tuco
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Argentine
Ingredients: 400 g (14 oz) tallarines or spaghetti; 400 g (14 oz) tomato puree; 1 onion, chopped; 200 g (7 oz) ground beef — optional; 2 tbsp oil; oregano a pinch; to taste salt

20 minutes prep 40 minutes cook Serves 4 pasta

Tallarines con tuco is a comforting Argentinian pasta dish featuring long noodles paired with a rich tomato sauce. This sauce, known as tuco, can be made with or without meat, and is cooked until it exudes a homemade warmth, distinct from anything canned.

Commonly enjoyed on weeknights across Argentina, this dish brings together simple ingredients like tallarines or spaghetti, tomato puree, onion, and ground beef, seasoned with oregano and salt. The result is a hearty, flavorful meal that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients

400 g (14 oz)tallarines or spaghetti
400 g (14 oz)tomato puree
1onion, chopped
200 g (7 oz)ground beef — optional
2 tbspoil
oreganoa pinch
to tastesalt

Method

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for the sauce.
Add 200 g (7 oz) of ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until it is browned and no longer pink, ensuring that it is evenly cooked. This step adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Pour in 400 g (14 oz) of tomato puree, and sprinkle a pinch of oregano and salt to taste. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef and onion are well incorporated into the sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a deep, savory aroma.
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 400 g (14 oz) of tallarines or spaghetti and cook until just tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be al dente, with a slight bite when tasted.
Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot. Add enough of the simmered tuco to coat the pasta thoroughly, tossing gently to combine. The noodles should be evenly covered in the rich, flavorful sauce.
Transfer the dressed pasta to serving plates. Serve the remaining tuco in a bowl at the table, allowing diners to add more sauce as desired.
Offer grated cheese on the side for those who wish to sprinkle some over their pasta. This optional addition can enhance the dish with a creamy, salty finish.