Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Carbonara, the classic Italian pasta dish that has become a beloved favorite around the world, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with silky pasta, savory pancetta, and a velvety sauce that will leave you craving for more.
But first let’s jump few years to the past…
The exact origin of Carbonara is shrouded in mystery, with various theories surrounding its creation. One popular belief is that the dish originated in the mid-20th century in the Lazio region of Italy, particularly around Rome. It is said to have been a favorite among coal miners (carbonai), who used easily accessible ingredients like eggs, cheese, and cured meat to create a satisfying and hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
- 4 ounces of pancetta or bacon, diced (beef meat preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Sauté the pancetta: In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until it turns crispy and golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot pasta, tossing quickly and continuously to coat the pasta evenly. 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 water to thin it out.
Add the pancetta: Stir in the crispy pancetta, reserving a small amount for garnish.
Serve and garnish: Divide the Carbonara pasta among serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle with the reserved pancetta and freshly chopped parsley. Finish with an additional sprinkle of grated cheese, if desired.
Serve and enjoy!
Savor the irresistible flavors of homemade Carbonara as you indulge in each silky strand of pasta coated in a velvety sauce. With its origins rooted in the heart of Italy, this classic dish has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. By following this authentic recipe, you can create a restaurant-worthy Carbonara right in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity of the recipe, and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of Carbonara at your next pasta night. Buon appetito!