Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound of cacioforte pasta
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for caramelizing onions and bacon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cacioforte pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet with the onions and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar and cook over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the onions and bacon. Toss to combine.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the pasta and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat for skillet and saucepan
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 650
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 79g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 550mg
Sugar: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cacioforte pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta such as penne or rigatoni.
- Bacon can be substituted with pancetta or prosciutto.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Substitute the balsamic glaze with a white wine sauce.
- Add chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions, it takes time but it's worth it for the flavor.
- Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the glaze.
- Reserve some pasta water to add to the skillet if the pasta seems dry.
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the pasta.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or bruschetta.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the onions are burning, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to the skillet.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Cacioforte is a traditional pasta dish from the Italian region of Umbria.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, sweet, and tangy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a glass of red wine.
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Region: Italian