Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara is a quintessential Italian dish that epitomizes simplicity and rich flavor. This classic recipe combines al dente pasta with crispy pancetta, a creamy mixture of eggs and Parmesan cheese, and a generous dash of freshly ground black pepper. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal that transports your taste buds straight to Rome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This recipe stays true to traditional Roman Carbonara, free from cream or unnecessary additives, allowing the genuine flavors of the ingredients to shine.
• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of eggs and Parmesan creates a luscious, creamy sauce without the need for heavy cream.
• Minimal Ingredients: Requires only a handful of ingredients, making it both economical and straightforward.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes or dietary needs with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti or fettuccine
• Large eggs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Pancetta or guanciale, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt (for pasta cooking water)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Cook the Pancetta:
   • While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove the pancetta from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper until well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
   • Return the drained pasta to the pot while it’s still hot.
   • Immediately add the cooked pancetta and toss to combine.
   • Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta and quickly toss everything together. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.
   • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Garnish:
   • Divide the Carbonara among serving plates, ensuring even distribution of the pancetta.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Variations

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute pancetta with guanciale for a more authentic flavor, or use bacon if neither is available.
• Cheese Options: While Parmesan is commonly used, Pecorino Romano offers a sharper taste that pairs excellently with this dish.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
• Note: Spaghetti Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration.

FAQs

What is the origin of Spaghetti Carbonara?

Spaghetti Carbonara is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the Lazio region, particularly in Rome. Its exact origins are debated, but it has become a staple of Roman cuisine.

Wikipedia

Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks?

Yes, some variations of the recipe use whole eggs, while others use only yolks or a combination of both. Using yolks alone results in a richer, creamier sauce.

Is it traditional to add cream to Carbonara?

No, traditional Italian Carbonara does not include cream. The creaminess comes from the emulsification of eggs and cheese with the pasta water.

Wikipedia

What can I substitute for pancetta or guanciale?

If pancetta or guanciale is unavailable, unsmoked bacon can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may alter the traditional flavor of the dish.

Allrecipes

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

To avoid scrambling, ensure that you remove the pan from heat before adding the egg

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