Spaghetti alla Carbonara: the Traditional Italian Recipe

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 1
Spaghetti alla Carbonara: the Traditional Italian Recipe
in Pasta

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

30 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound guanciale ( cured pork cheek ) , diced
1 package spaghetti
3 eggs
10 tablespoons grated pecorino Romano cheese , divided
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4
Calories
611
Sugar
2g
Fat
38g
Spaghetti alla carbonara is a classic Roman dish that has become popular around the world. The dish is said to have been created during World War II, when American soldiers stationed in Italy came across the traditional dish and added bacon and cream to it. The dish, as it is commonly made today, consists of spaghetti noodles, eggs, pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale, and black pepper. The guanciale is a key ingredient, as it provides a distinct flavor that cannot be replicated by any other type of meat. The dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, with a glass of red wine to accompany it.

Instructions

1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2.While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add guanciale and cook until it is golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Turn off the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the guanciale to a plate lined with paper towels.
3.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and 8 tablespoons of pecorino Romano cheese until well combined.
4.While the mixing bowl is still warm from the eggs, add the pasta and toss until it is well coated with the egg mixture. Use the reserved pasta water to help thin the sauce, if necessary.
5.Add the crispy guanciale, salt, and pepper to the pasta. Toss again until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6.Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle each serving with the remaining 2 tablespoons of pecorino Romano cheese and additional black pepper, if desired.

PROS

Spaghetti alla carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and bursting with flavor.
The creamy sauce, which is made with eggs and cheese, clings to the noodles and creates a silky texture that is irresistible.
The guanciale adds a rich, savory flavor that makes this dish even more satisfying.

CONS

As with many pasta dishes, spaghetti alla carbonara is high in calories, fat, and sodium.
It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Also, some people may be hesitant to use raw eggs in the dish, so make sure to use fresh, high-quality eggs from a trusted source and cook the dish thoroughly.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While spaghetti alla carbonara is not the healthiest meal, it does contain some nutritional benefits. The eggs in the dish provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissue in the body. The dish is also high in calcium, which supports the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. However, the dish is best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of the diet.

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