Classic Italian Carbonara
Classic Italian Carbonara is a beloved dish from Italy that elegantly combines a few simple yet sumptuous ingredients to create a dish that is both hearty and sophisticated. Perfect for a romantic dinner for two, this dish highlights the rich flavors of pancetta, cheese, and garlic mingled with the creamy, luscious texture of the eggs. An Italian delight for those who appreciate the finer aspects of Southern European cuisine with a comforting, home-cooked appeal.
Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 100g pancetta, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 50g pecorino cheese, grated
- 50g parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and garlic cloves, cooking until the pancetta is crisp and the garlic is fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Remove garlic cloves and discard them.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, pecorino cheese, and parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked spaghetti to the pancetta. Toss to combine, then add the egg and cheese mixture, tossing quickly to create a creamy sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips
- For best results, use room-temperature eggs to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Do not add the egg mixture over direct heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Grate the cheeses fresh for a superior texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Per 100g | Per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 366 kcal (1531 kJ) | 732 kcal (3062 kJ) |
| Fat | 25g | 50g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g | 50g |
| Sugars | 2g | 4g |
| Proteins | 10g | 20g |
| Salt | 1g | 2g |
