Carbonara pasta

Recipe for Pasta alla Carbonara

Discover the magic of a classic recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine: Pasta alla Carbonara. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner. With a total preparation time of about 20 minutes, you'll create a savory dish that can be served on special occasions or on ordinary evenings.

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
- 300 g short pasta (preferably penne or rigatoni)
- 200 g pancetta (or guanciale for an authentic version)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (from the pasta cooking water)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g grated parmigiano reggiano

A bit of history:
Pasta alla Carbonara has its origins in Italy, often associated with the central regions. Its name derives from "carbonaro," which means "coal worker." It is believed that this dish was prepared for miners who needed a hearty and energizing meal. This recipe has evolved over the years, but its essence remains the same: simple yet quality ingredients that transform into a delicious dish.

Step by step:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt (the water should be as salty as the sea) and add the pasta. Boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Prepare the pancetta: While the pasta is boiling, cut the pancetta into small cubes. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta cubes and let them cook until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of water and stir. This step will help create a delicious emulsion.

3. Beat the eggs: In a bowl, beat the 2 eggs well and add the grated parmigiano. It is important not to add salt at this stage, as the cheese is already salty. Mix until you achieve a smooth mixture.

4. Drain the pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain it but reserve a few tablespoons of the cooking water. Do not rinse the pasta with cold water, as this removes the starch that helps the sauce stick to the pasta.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the drained pasta to the skillet over the pancetta. Gently stir to combine the ingredients and allow the pasta to absorb the flavors. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and add the egg and parmigiano mixture. Stir quickly to avoid the eggs scrambling. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved water to thin it out. Continue stirring for 2 minutes.

6. Season: Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. You can be generous with the pepper, as it is a key ingredient in Carbonara.

7. Serve: Serve immediately, with an extra sprinkle of grated parmigiano on top and a dash of freshly ground pepper. This dish is delicious both hot and at room temperature, so feel free to share it with friends or family.

Helpful tips:
- Choose quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, for better texture.
- Ensure the pancetta is fresh. Quality pancetta will make a difference in the final taste.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pecorino romano, for a stronger flavor.
- If you want a vegetable version, you can add zucchini or peas, but keep in mind that this will change the authentic character of the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I substitute pancetta with something else?
- Yes, you can use bacon or even tofu for a vegetarian version, but the taste will be different.

2. Why shouldn’t I rinse the pasta?
- Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick to the pasta, making it less flavorful.

3. What wine pairs well with Pasta alla Carbonara?
- A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, pairs excellently with this recipe.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 600 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Enjoy this Pasta alla Carbonara recipe that combines tradition with the comfort of a quick meal. It's a perfect opportunity to indulge in a delicious dish that will surely impress! Bon appétit!