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Kasha Varnishkes

A cozy dish blending nutty buckwheat kasha with tender pasta and savory sautéed onions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main, Side Dish
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup buckwheat kasha
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 1 cup bowtie pasta or any pasta of choice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the buckwheat kasha and toast for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of water or broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the kasha is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
  6. In the same skillet used for the kasha, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped onion.
  7. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is golden and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  8. Once the onions are ready, add the cooked kasha and pasta to the skillet and gently toss to combine.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed.
  10. Transfer the Kasha Varnishkes to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley.
  11. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Great as a main course or as a side alongside roasted meats.