Spaghetti Carbonara, a classic Roman pasta dish
Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Roman pasta dish believed to have originated in the mid-20th century. Its name, "carbonara," is derived from "carbonaro," the Italian word for charcoal burner, suggesting that the dish was popular among coal miners. The recipe has evolved over the years and today it is celebrated worldwide for its creamy texture, rich flavor and simplicity.
Spaghetti Carbonara is a tasteful pasta dish featuring spaghetti noodles coated in a velvety sauce made from eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, pancetta and black pepper. The result is a comforting and satisfying dish that beautifully balances the richness of the eggs and cheese with the salty, savoury notes of pancetta.
- 400 g Spaghetti
- 150 g Pancetta (Diced)
- 4 Large Eggs
- 1 (100g) cup Pecorino Romano cheese (Grated)
- 1 (100g) cup Parmesan cheese (Grated)
- Freshly ground black paper (Add to taste)
- Salt (Add to taste)
- Fresh Parsley (Chopped)
- Guanciale instead of pancetta
- Whole wheat or gluten free spaghett
- Mix of Pecorino Romano and Parmesan for a milder flavor
- 1 Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- 2
Prepare the Sauce- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Set aside.
- 3
Cook the Pancetta- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced pancetta until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- 4
Combine the Ingredients- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta, tossing to coat the pasta in the rendered fat.
- 5
Temper the Eggs- Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing vigorously to ensure even coating.
- Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- 6
Season and Serve- Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes to let the flavours meld.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Note- Work quickly when combining the egg and cheese mixture with the hot pasta to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
- For a smokier flavour, use smoked pancetta or bacon.
- Adjust the quantity of black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Potential Allergies
- Contains eggs and dairy.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- Be cautious of the type of cheese used for those with lactose intolerance.
Spaghetti Carbonara is a delightful Roman speciality that has found its way into kitchens around the globe. With its creamy texture and harmonious blend of flavors, this dish is sure to become a household favourite. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, the joy of creating and savouring this timeless classic is an experience worth relishing. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Italian comfort food.