Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking bacon and garlic
- Mixing bowl for eggs and Parmesan cheese
- Tongs for tossing pasta
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese.
5. When the pasta is done cooking, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
6. Add the mashed bananas to the skillet with the bacon and garlic, and cook for a minute until heated through.
7. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the bacon, garlic, and banana mixture.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and pour in the egg and Parmesan mixture, tossing quickly to coat the pasta evenly.
9. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 430
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 19g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Spaghetti can be substituted with any other pasta shape.
- Bacon can be substituted with pancetta or ham.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or peas to the skillet with the bacon and garlic.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Add a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the pasta.
Tips and tricks:
- Reserve some of the pasta water to help create a creamy sauce.
- Mash the bananas well to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Use tongs to toss the pasta with the sauce to ensure even coating.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
Pairings:
A crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a side of fruit.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water. If the sauce is too thin, cook for a few more minutes to thicken.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon and eggs thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome. It is typically made with spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and pancetta or bacon.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, salty, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish.
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Region: Italian