Spaghetti Carbonara is a testament to the magic that happens when a few simple ingredients come together. This iconic Roman dish features perfectly al dente spaghetti coated in a luxuriously creamy sauce made with egg yolks, pecorino romano cheese, and generous black pepper. Crispy pancetta adds a touch of salty richness, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup (70g) grated pecorino romano cheese
- 4 oz (115g) pancetta, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and grated pecorino romano cheese until well combined. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Set the sauce aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions for al dente. Important Tip: Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
- Crisp Up the Pancetta: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta slices and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Emulsify the Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Immediately transfer the hot pasta to the bowl with the egg yolk mixture. Using tongs, toss the pasta with the sauce until it coats the noodles evenly. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the egg yolks, creating a creamy texture. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Avoid over-mixing, as the eggs can scramble.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the spaghetti carbonara and garnish with the crispy pancetta. Serve immediately, with additional grated pecorino romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper on the side, for those who desire more.