Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 6 ounces pancetta, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Large skillet for cooking pancetta and garlic
- Mixing bowl for egg yolks and cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
2. While spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined.
5. Once spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add spaghetti to the skillet with pancetta and garlic.
6. Remove skillet from heat and add egg yolk mixture to the spaghetti. Toss until spaghetti is coated in the sauce.
7. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- None
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 640
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Protein: 31g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pancetta can be substituted with bacon or guanciale.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked peas or asparagus to the spaghetti for a pop of color and added nutrition.
- Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist on the classic dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to reserve some pasta water to add to the sauce if it is too thick.
- Whisk the egg yolk mixture well to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be sure to cook the spaghetti to al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Food History:
- Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome in the mid-20th century.
Flavor Profiles:
- Salty, savory, and creamy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for a cozy dinner at home.
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Region: Italian