Does a dish need to be exactly as a recipe states for you to enjoy or can you adapt it? tr

I made a spag bol with spaghetti.
But on another occasion I added different veg and used tagliatelle.

I didn't see the big deal but I overheard a conversation where by although the group liked both dishes, I couldn't claim it to be spag bol since it was so different.

I was taken aback since I made the effort but fancied a change.
😕

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

CountScrofula · 41-45, M

First off, bolognese actually goes with tagliatelli in Italy. Spaghetti is used for other dishes so it's a little closer to real Italian food when you use tagliatelli.

I always see recipes as suggestions. I want to know the technique, outcome, and ingredients but after that I go completely off on my own. I will often read four or five recipes and then combine what I like out of all of them to make whatever I wish.

What always matters is - does it taste good? Sure. Sometimes if you vary so far from a recipe it's inappropriate to call it the same thing, which is fair. If someone tells me I'm getting a cheeseburger and they substitute the beef for a pork chop, I'll still be happy but it needs a different name.

Starcrossed · 41-45, F

I will often read four or five recipes and then combine what I like out of all of them to make whatever I wish.

Same