Indulge in the creamy, savory delight of carbonara, a classic Italian pasta dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. This recipe showcases the beauty of simplicity, with just a few ingredients coming together to create a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this carbonara will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 100g pancetta or guanciale, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (100g) of carbonara contains approximately 500 calories, 25g of protein, 38g of carbohydrates, and 30g of fat. This is a hearty meal that can fuel your day.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a pan, cook the diced pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy.
- While the meat cooks, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Add minced garlic to the pancetta for extra flavor, cooking for an additional minute.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve some cooking water and drain the rest.
- Quickly add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta, removing from heat.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you can’t find guanciale, pancetta is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, use smoked mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Serving and Pairings
Carbonara pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio. Garlic bread can also complement this dish, adding a nice crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover carbonara in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess. It is not recommended to freeze carbonara, as the sauce may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Ensure the pan is off the heat when adding the egg mixture to avoid scrambling.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Be cautious with salt, as pancetta is already salty.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps achieve the desired sauce consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Mix the egg and cheese mixture quickly to prevent lumps.
- Experiment with adding peas or asparagus for extra veggies.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
What type of pasta is best for carbonara?
Traditionally, spaghetti is used for carbonara, but other long pasta types like fettuccine or linguine can also work well. The key is to ensure the pasta can hold the creamy sauce.
Can I make carbonara without eggs?
While eggs are essential for the traditional carbonara sauce, you can use alternatives like silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a vegan version. However, the flavor and texture will differ.
Is carbonara a healthy meal?
Carbonara is rich in calories due to its cheese and pancetta content. While it can be enjoyed in moderation, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing cheese for a healthier option.
What can I add to carbonara for extra flavor?
You can enhance carbonara with fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish.
How can I prevent my carbonara from being too dry?
To ensure your carbonara maintains its creamy texture, always reserve some pasta cooking water and add it gradually when mixing in the egg mixture. Stir quickly to combine.
Conclusion
Carbonara is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With its simple ingredients and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this culinary delight with your loved ones!
Carbonara Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 100 g pancetta or guanciale diced
- 2 large eggs
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a pan, cook the diced pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy.
- While the meat cooks, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Add minced garlic to the pancetta for extra flavor, cooking for an additional minute.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve some cooking water and drain the rest.
- Quickly add the hot pasta to the pan with pancetta, removing from heat.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.