Carbonara Recipe

Carbonara, a classic Italian pasta dish, is beloved for its creamy sauce and rich flavors. Originating from Rome, this dish has found its way into kitchens around the world, cherished for its simplicity and indulgent taste. Here’s how you can recreate an authentic Carbonara at home, bringing a touch of Italy to your table.

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti: 320g (about 11 oz)
• Guanciale or Pancetta: 150g (about 5 oz), diced
• Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature
• Pecorino Romano cheese: 100g (about 3.5 oz), finely grated
• Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
• Salt: To taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

1. Cook the Guanciale/Pancetta:

• In a large skillet, heat the diced guanciale or pancetta over medium heat. Cook until the fat has rendered and the meat is crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper (about 1 teaspoon or to taste).

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• While the pasta is still hot, add it to the skillet with the cooked guanciale/pancetta. Toss to combine, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the rendered fat.

1. Add the Egg Mixture:

• Remove the skillet from heat. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing continuously to coat each strand. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a creamy consistency.

1. Serve Immediately:

• Serve the Carbonara immediately, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this classic Italian dish!

Tips for the Perfect Carbonara:

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps to ensure they blend smoothly into the pasta without scrambling.
• Quality Ingredients: Authentic Carbonara relies on high-quality Pecorino Romano cheese and either guanciale or pancetta for its distinct flavor.
• Toss Quickly: Once the egg mixture is added, toss the pasta quickly to prevent the eggs from overcooking.

Conclusion:

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and simple preparation, Carbonara exemplifies the essence of Italian comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy night in, mastering this recipe will transport you to the streets of Rome with every bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the timeless delight of homemade Carbonara, and savor the magic of Italian cuisine right at your own table. Buon appetito!