How to Make Perfect Pasta Carbonara

Pasta carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that has become beloved by many. Made with simple ingredients and known for its rich creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for any level of cook, from beginner to advanced. This article will guide you through making your own delicious pasta carbonara at home.

Ingredients

• 400 grams (about 3 cups) of spaghetti or other long pasta
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup grated pecorino romano cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 100 grams pancetta, finely chopped (or you can use guanciale)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people

1. Start by boiling the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add salt. Once it starts to boil, add your spaghetti or other long pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta you use.
2. Cook the pancetta: While waiting for the pasta to finish, heat up a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add your finely chopped pancetta and let it render its fat slowly until crispy but not burnt. Remove from the pan and set aside once done.
3. Mix eggs with cheese: In a mixing bowl, whisk three out of four eggs with about 1/2 cup of grated pecorino romano cheese until well combined.
4. Reserve some pasta water: Drain the cooked spaghetti into a colander. Save approximately one cup of hot pasta water from draining for later use.
5. Combine all ingredients: In your mixing bowl, add the remaining 1/2 cup of grated pecorino romano and mix thoroughly with the reserved pasta cooking water. Then stir in the drained spaghetti followed by the pancetta pieces and whisked egg mixture. Be careful not to over-mix as you want the sauce to be creamy yet hold onto some texture from the pasta.
6. Season and serve: Season generously with salt and pepper, then check for consistency; if too dry, add more pasta water until it reaches desired creaminess. If you prefer a richer flavor, add extra grated cheese or another beaten egg at this stage. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For those looking to make the dish spicier, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes along with the pancetta during cooking. Additionally, if you're a vegetarian or vegan and wish to try this dish without meat, you can substitute the pancetta for sautéed mushrooms or add in spinach towards the end of cooking.

Pasta carbonara is best enjoyed while it's still warm off the stove. Serve immediately on plates garnished with extra grated pecorino romano cheese if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or a chilled Pinot Grigio from Italy.

Conclusion

Pasta carbonara is not just about the combination of ingredients; it's also about technique and timing. By following these steps carefully, you'll end up with an authentic tasting dish that will surely impress your family and friends alike. Whether served as a light meal or as part of a more elaborate dinner, this recipe offers flexibility in serving size and presentation.

Enjoy creating and enjoying your homemade pasta carbonara!