Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking bacon and mushrooms
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with mushrooms and garlic. Toss to combine.
6. Remove skillet from heat and add egg and cheese mixture to the spaghetti. Toss quickly to coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
7. Add cooked bacon to the skillet and toss to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute pancetta or ham for bacon.
- Use any type of mushroom you prefer.
- Substitute spaghetti with any type of pasta.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and Tricks:
- Reserve pasta water before draining to use for creating a creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta quickly with egg and cheese mixture to prevent scrambling the eggs.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best results.
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 with a splash of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve in a large pasta bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, cook over low heat until it thickens.
Food Safety Advice:
- Cook bacon and mushrooms to a safe internal temperature.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome. It is typically made with spaghetti, bacon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Flavor Profiles:
Savory, salty, creamy, umami.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: Italian