Romanian Sweet Pasta to Bake Or Not ?

The Gemini in me is never satisfied with the normal stuff . It compels me to try something new or else run the risk of spending some time with Mr.Boredom himself. I try to avoid such an encounter by trying out new recipes every week but then my inner Gemini finds that boring as well and in order to satiate it , have to add a new twist to this new recipe tryout thing. So , from time to time I hunt down international recipes and give them a try . It gives me an insight into the local flavors preferred by the people in  that geographical location which helps enrich my culinary journey and by reading this blog yours as well I believe. Anything to keep things interesting ,eh? 

Last month , my international bake was an orangy twist to the popular middle eastern Basbousa . We made it as part of  the kids summer geography club and it was so much fun. The kids are back to school now but wanted  them to be part of the experience too , hence chose a simple enough recipe . This Hungarian sweet pasta seemed appealing enough especially from  kids perspective. Let's admit it  -they adore pasta , even the healthy whole wheat one and this sweet version is sure to perk them up. So , give it a try when you feel they have been specially good and deserve a sweet treat . 

Did I mention that this recipe gives you the option to bake it or not? You read that correctly. If you want a more firmer effect , you are welcome to keep it in the oven for 20 minutes at 350 degrees F . I skipped that altogether ..was feeling a fit feverish and didn't feel inclined to wait another 20 minutes. But if you guys have better patience than me , do give it a try and let me know how it turned out. Many online versions also call for baking it in a pie dish ..by all means explore that possibility as well if you are so inclined. While at it , shake up the ingredients a bit by adding a half a teaspoon  of lemon rind too.

Ingredients - 

450 grams pasta (boiled and drained)

1 cup organic maple syrup or honey (by all means use less)

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 1/2 cup raisins

1 tsp cinnamon powder

1/2 tsp powdered cloves

Method- 

Boil and drain the pasta and keep it aside.

Now on a saucepan , over medium heat, heat the maple syrup and walnuts for 2-3 minutes. 

To this , add the raisins , cinnamon powder and powdered cloves. Let it simmer for additional 2-3 minutes, 

Add the prepared sauce to the pasta and give it a good mix.Serve warm