Recipe: Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

 

Spaghetti Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish known for its creamy sauce, rich flavor, and simplicity. Made with just a few key ingredients, it's perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Here's how to make this classic dish:

Ingredients:

• 350g (12oz) spaghetti
• 150g (5oz) pancetta or bacon, diced
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

2. Cook the Pancetta (or Bacon):

   • While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta or bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

   • Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the rendered pancetta fat. Toss the spaghetti in the fat for about 1 minute to coat evenly.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta. Use tongs to toss the pasta continuously, allowing the residual heat to cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Add the Pancetta and Serve:

   • Once the sauce has coated the spaghetti and reached a creamy consistency, add the cooked pancetta (or bacon) back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and more black pepper if needed.
   • Serve the spaghetti carbonara immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Spaghetti Carbonara!