Spaghetti Alla Carbonara

The best breakfast after a hangover...or...the best late snack to avoid a hangover!

Spahetti alla carbonara is one of those quintessential Roman dishes.  If you have a well stocked pantry with pancetta or bacon in the freezer you can pull this quick meal in a jiffy.  Use Pecorino Romano in this recipe. It is saltier and more robust than Parmaggiano Reggiano. Or at least use half and half.

Printable Recipe

Ingredients

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 oz (115 gr) pancetta, diced (or substitute with un-smoked bacon)

2 eggs

salt

1 lb (450 gr) spaghetti

2 oz (60 gr) pecorino romano cheese, freshly grated

Directions

In a large stockpot, bring the water for the pasta to a boil. While waiting for the water to boil, pour the olive oil in a frying pan, and add the bacon. Fry until the bacon is light brown, but still soft. In a pasta bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. When the water comes to a boil, add salt and cook the pasta following manufacturer’s instructions, testing for readiness from time to time, until al dente (firm but not too soft or overcooked). Drain the pasta and drop it immediately into the bowl over the beaten eggs. Mix vigorously. The heat of the boiling pasta will cook the eggs, making them resemble a light cream. Add the bacon with its frying fat, the grated cheese, and abundant black pepper. Toss thoroughly. Serve at once.