Spaghetti carbonara is one of the most popular and delicious pasta dishes in the world. It is a simple but satisfying dish that can be made in less than 30 minutes with just a few ingredients. In this article, you will learn what spaghetti carbonara is, how to make it, the history behind it, and some suggestions for side dishes to go with it.
Spaghetti carbonara is a pasta dish that consists of spaghetti tossed with eggs, cheese, bacon, and black pepper. The eggs and cheese create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta, while the bacon adds a salty and smoky flavor. The black pepper adds a spicy kick and contrasts with the richness of the sauce.
Spaghetti carbonara is a traditional dish from Rome, Italy, where it is also known as “cacio e pepe con uova e guanciale” (cheese and pepper with eggs and pork cheek). The name “carbonara” comes from the Italian word “carbonaro”, which means “charcoal burner”. Some say that the dish was invented by coal miners who cooked it over charcoal fires. Others say that it was created by American soldiers who brought bacon and eggs to Italy during World War II.
How to Make Spaghetti Carbonara
To make spaghetti carbonara, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces of bacon or pancetta, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
The steps to make spaghetti carbonara are:
- Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water.
- In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and cheese together until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon or pancetta until crisp, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Return the skillet to low heat and add the pasta. Toss to coat with the bacon fat.
- Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Add some of the reserved pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve hot with more cheese if desired.
The History of Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti carbonara is a relatively modern dish that has no definitive origin story. However, there are several theories and legends about how it came to be.
One theory is that spaghetti carbonara was invented by coal miners who worked in the Apennine Mountains near Rome. They used ingredients that were easy to carry and preserve, such as eggs, cheese, bacon, and pasta. They cooked the dish over charcoal fires, which gave it a smoky flavor and a blackened appearance.
Another theory is that spaghetti carbonara was created by American soldiers who occupied Italy during World War II. They brought bacon and eggs with them as part of their rations and mixed them with local ingredients, such as pasta and cheese. They introduced the dish to Italian chefs, who adapted it to their own tastes and traditions.
A third theory is that spaghetti carbonara was inspired by another Roman dish called “cacio e pepe”, which means “cheese and pepper”. This dish consists of spaghetti tossed with pecorino cheese and black pepper. Some say that eggs and bacon were added to make it more filling and flavorful.
Whatever the true origin of spaghetti carbonara is, it is undeniable that it is a delicious and satisfying dish that has become a staple of Italian cuisine.
Side Dishes for Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti carbonara is a hearty and rich dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with some side dishes to complement it. Here are some suggestions for side dishes that go well with spaghetti carbonara:
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light dressing can balance out the heaviness of the pasta dish. You can use any greens you like, such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, or kale. You can also add some tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, olives, or cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Bread: A crusty bread can soak up the creamy sauce and add some crunch to your meal. You can use any bread you like, such as baguette, ciabatta, focaccia, or garlic bread. You can also spread some butter or olive oil on your bread for extra richness.
- Wine: A glass of wine can enhance the flavor and aroma of your pasta dish. You can choose a white or red wine depending on your preference. A white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, or Sauvignon Blanc, can pair well with the cheese and eggs in the sauce. A red wine, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Chianti, can pair well with the bacon and pepper in the dish.
Conclusion
Spaghetti carbonara is a quick and easy pasta dish that can be made with just a few ingredients. It is a creamy and savory dish that originated in Rome, Italy, and has become a worldwide favorite. You can enjoy it on its own or with some side dishes, such as salad, bread, or wine. If you try this recipe, please let us know what you think and share your suggestions. Bon appetit!
