Spaghetti Alla Carbonara Recipe – A Traditional Italian Dish with Rich and Creamy Flavors
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- Serving: 4
- Prep time: 25 m
- Cook time: 20 m
- Ready in: 45 m
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors. This recipe takes you through creating a traditional Carbonara sauce, made with eggs, cheese, pancetta or guanciale, and black pepper, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ideal for those who appreciate the finer details of Italian cooking, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a testament to the elegance of simplicity in cuisine.
This dish, while simple in its ingredients, requires a level of finesse to achieve the silky, smooth sauce that coats the pasta without curdling. Whether it’s for a comforting meal at home, a romantic dinner, or impressing guests with your culinary skills, Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a superb choice. It’s a satisfying and deliciously indulgent dish that highlights the flavors and textures of its few key ingredients. Enjoy the process of making this authentic Italian classic and savor the delightful combination of creamy pasta and crispy pork bits in every bite.
Embark on a culinary adventure with our delightful Pasta Recipes, featuring everything from comforting classic spaghetti to innovative pasta creations, perfect for pasta lovers seeking new flavors and inspirations!
Ingredients
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Instructions
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Instructions
1-Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
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2-While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta or guanciale and cook until it's crispy and golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
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3-In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese. Season generously with black pepper.
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4-Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti.
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5-Quickly add the hot spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the rendered fat.
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6-Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring rapidly to create a creamy sauce. The residual heat will cook the eggs without scrambling them.
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7-If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
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8-Serve the Carbonara immediately, garnished with more grated cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
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Conclusion
Our Authentic Spaghetti Alla Carbonara is a testament to the beauty and simplicity of Italian cooking. Each bite offers a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy flavors with the saltiness of pancetta, making it an irresistible dish. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Carbonara is sure to transport you to the cobblestone streets of Rome, right from your dining table.
Smart Tips
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Pancetta vs. Guanciale: While pancetta is more commonly available, guanciale is the traditional choice and offers a richer flavor.
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Egg Temperatures: Use room-temperature eggs to ensure a smoother sauce.
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Cheese Quality: Opt for high-quality Pecorino Romano for the best flavor. Parmesan can be used in a pinch, but Pecorino is traditional.
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Avoiding Scrambled Eggs: Ensure the skillet is off the heat when adding the egg mixture to prevent scrambling.
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Serving Tip: Serve Carbonara immediately as it continues to thicken upon standing and is best enjoyed fresh.
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Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Frascati or a light red like Montepulciano d'Abruzzo for an authentic Italian dining experience.
