The Viral Pasta That Has Everyone On TikTok Talking

I’m generally pretty suspicious of viral recipes. This is for three reasons: One, I think they can value aesthetics and appearance over actual flavor – and while the former two are important when it comes to food, of course, the recent example of dot cakes is a good example of how visually-led it can all be. Two, I think they can be overcomplicated; and three, they can often “viralize” something that’s existed for a long time, taking us away from the cultural origins of a dish. 

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The latest viral pasta trend is at risk of that last one – but luckily, people are respecting its roots, while also bringing an easy, tasty dish to the fore of our minds. I might be told on this one.

Macarona Bil Laban, Or Pasta With Yogurt

Yesterday, Allrecipes reported on the rise of people making pasta with yogurt on TikTok – which is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Alternatively called Lebanese yogurt noodles or macarona bil laban, it’s an easygoing meal that combines the two key ingredients (pasta and full-fat yogurt) with garlic and salt. Other versions contain spices, proteins, pine nuts, and herbs – but creator @reemieshops, who Allrecipes says is the instigator of the trend, keeps things simple. 

Macarona bil laban is the kind of dish that’s been passed down from generation to generation, and a combination of comfort food and speedy eating. While it’s often made with spaghetti, it can be put together with pretty much any pasta shape you have to hand, although generally speaking, it’s best to use one that can hold and deliver the sauce well. Other TikTok creators have jumped on board with the trend, with some prominent names and faces in the mix putting their own spin on things while still keeping things relatively simple: @courtneylcook, for instance, served hers with a side of sliced tomatoes and a piece of buttered bread. As macarona bil laban is often served cool or at room temperature (although it can also be warmed up), it’s a great option for when the heat creeps up. 

Viral Recipe Check!

It’s been a busy old year of viral recipes, guys – and honestly, when is it not? Dumpling lasagna’s now been and gone (although it could rear its head at any time), and marry me chicken is somehow, against all the odds, still showing up on my feed. At the moment, though, it’s all about dot cakes and macarona bil laban, which feel almost like opposing ends of the spectrum. One is appearance-led, vibrant, bright; the other is flavor-led, wholesome, soothing.