Spaghetti carbonara, recipe with cream

Spaghetti Carbonara with Cream - A Quick and Tasty Delight

On a busy evening or simply when you crave culinary comfort, spaghetti carbonara with cream is the perfect choice. This classic Italian dish is not only delicious but also extremely easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you'll transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Get ready to discover the secrets of a recipe that perfectly combines the flavor of crispy bacon with the creaminess of the cream and the intensity of parmesan.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Your Ingredients for Spaghetti Carbonara with Cream:

- 500 g of spaghetti (choose a quality brand for a better taste)
- 600 g of bacon (or pancetta, for a stronger flavor)
- 400 g of cream (use cream with a higher fat content for a creamy texture)
- 3 eggs (ideally, use fresh farm eggs)
- 4 cloves of garlic (for an extra flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of grated parmesan (or more if you're a cheese fan)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (for boiling water)

A Bit of History:
Spaghetti carbonara was created in Italy, but the exact origin of the recipe is not clearly defined. It is said to have been popularized by American soldiers who came to Italy during World War II and brought with them the necessary ingredients, such as bacon and eggs. This dish has evolved over the decades, and today there are numerous variations. The version with cream is preferred by many, as it adds a delicious creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, the cooking time is about 8-10 minutes, but make sure they remain al dente. This step is crucial, as the spaghetti will continue to cook in the sauce.

2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the spaghetti is boiling, take a large skillet and add the olive oil. Heat it over medium heat and add the whole garlic cloves, letting them fry for 2-3 minutes until golden. Remove them from the skillet, as we only want their aroma, not a bitter taste.

3. Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bacon. Fry it until it becomes crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. It is essential not to burn it, as the bitter taste of burnt bacon can ruin the dish.

4. Add the Cream:
Once the bacon is ready, pour the cream over it and mix well. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs with the grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Everything:
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the cream and bacon. Mix well to coat them evenly. Then, pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti, stirring quickly. The heat from the spaghetti will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. If you notice that the sauce is too runny, you can place the skillet on low heat and stir continuously until it thickens.

7. Serve with Style:
Portion the spaghetti into plates and sprinkle grated parmesan on top. Add a dash of freshly ground pepper for an intense flavor.

Serving Suggestions:
For a complete meal, you can serve spaghetti carbonara with a light green salad, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can use chicken breast or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

- Is cream necessary?
In the original carbonara recipe, cream is not used, but to achieve a creamy sauce, cream is an excellent ingredient.

- How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of water to keep them moist.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs and bacon, but it also provides essential carbohydrates from the spaghetti. The cream and parmesan add healthy fats, giving you a dose of energy. However, consume in moderation, as it is a richer recipe in calories (approximately 600-700 calories per serving).

Possible Variations:
To add a splash of color and flavor, you can include fresh peas or cherry tomatoes in the cream sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pecorino or gouda, to achieve unique flavors.

In conclusion, spaghetti carbonara with cream is an easy-to-make dish, full of flavor and very versatile. Whether you cook it for a quick family dinner or for a gathering with friends, this dish will surely impress. Dare to experiment and put your personal touch on this classic recipe. Enjoy your meal!