Classic carbonara spaghetti recipe

Spaghetti Carbonara - Classic Recipe

Welcome to the delicious world of pasta! Today, I will share with you the secret of a spaghetti carbonara recipe that honors Italian traditions, without the need for cream or other controversial ingredients. This simple and quick recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Italy, where every ingredient plays an essential role. I promise that once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 300 g spaghetti
- 1 whole egg
- 1 yolk
- 100 g cheese (Parmesan, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Romano, grated)
- 150-175 g smoked bacon (or pancetta, if you find it)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Ingredient details

- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti, ideally made from durum wheat. This will absorb the sauce better and have a better texture.
- Cheese: In the classic recipe, Pecorino Romano is mainly used, but Parmesan or Grana Padano are excellent alternatives. Make sure the cheese is freshly grated for a perfect sauce consistency.
- Bacon or pancetta: Pancetta is more traditional, but smoked bacon is an excellent choice and easier to find in most stores. Choose high-quality bacon with more meat and less fat.
- Pepper: Use freshly ground pepper for a more intense flavor. It is an essential ingredient in carbonara, adding a hint of spice.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the bacon: Start by cutting the bacon into thin strips. In a large pan, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the bacon and sauté until crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it to a paper towel to absorb excess fat and let it cool.

2. Boil the spaghetti: While the bacon cools, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the sauce.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a large bowl, crack the whole egg and the yolk. Add a generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper and whisk the eggs well with a fork. Incorporate the grated cheese, leaving some for garnish. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

4. Finalizing the dish: When the spaghetti is ready, remove it directly from the water using tongs or a special tool, without draining it too much. Add it to the bowl with the egg and cheese mixture, mixing quickly. The heat of the pasta will cook the eggs, turning them into a creamy sauce. Add the cooled bacon and mix well.

5. Serving: Portion the spaghetti onto plates and sprinkle grated cheese on top, and if desired, a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your meal!

Helpful tips

- Do not rinse the pasta: It is very important not to rinse the spaghetti under water. This removes the starch, which is essential for helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Buy whole cheese: It is always better to buy whole cheese and grate it at home, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect the sauce's texture.
- Pasta: If you want a variation, try using tagliatelle or fettuccine instead of spaghetti. The result will be just as delicious!
- Pancetta pieces: If you find pancetta, use it for a more authentic taste and deeper flavor.

Pairings and serving suggestions

A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with spaghetti carbonara, bringing a note of freshness. Additionally, a glass of mineral water or fresh lemonade is ideal to balance the richness of the sauce.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use cream in carbonara?: Traditionally, carbonara does not contain cream. This is how the creamy sauce is achieved, thanks to the cheese and eggs.
- Why can't I drain the pasta?: The liquid from the pasta helps emulsify the sauce. It is an essential step to achieve the desired consistency.
- Can I prepare carbonara in advance?: It is recommended to make carbonara fresh, as the sauce can separate if stored for too long.

Conclusion

The spaghetti carbonara recipe is a true culinary treasure, offering a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Once you have experimented with this classic recipe, you will be ready to adapt and personalize it according to your preferences. Don't forget to savor every bite and share this delicacy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!