In the inaugural episode of “Super Delicioso,” Filipa Gomes takes us on a culinary journey to create an authentic Italian Carbonara. This delightful dish, known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, is a favorite among pasta lovers. Join Filipa as she shares her tips and tricks for making this classic recipe at home.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Carbonara requires minimal ingredients: pasta, guanciale, pecorino cheese, eggs, and pepper.
- The secret to a creamy sauce lies in the technique of mixing hot pasta with the egg and cheese mixture.
- Always season your pasta water generously to enhance the flavor of the dish.
The Essence Of Carbonara
Carbonara is a traditional Italian dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its authentic ingredients:
- Pasta: Typically, spaghetti or linguine is used.
- Guanciale: This cured meat adds a unique flavor; however, pancetta or bacon can be substitutes.
- Pecorino Romano: A hard cheese made from sheep’s milk, essential for that authentic taste.
- Eggs: The key to achieving a creamy sauce.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground for the best flavor.
Preparing The Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s crucial to prepare your ingredients:
- Pasta: Use about 200-250g of your preferred pasta.
- Guanciale: About 150g, cut into strips or cubes, discarding any excess fat.
- Cheese: Grate 100g of pecorino cheese.
- Eggs: You’ll need 2 egg yolks and 1 whole egg.
- Seasoning: Freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Steps
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt (1-2 tablespoons per liter) once boiling.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Prepare Guanciale: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the guanciale until crispy and golden. Reserve some for garnishing later.
- Mix Cheese and Eggs: In a bowl, combine the grated pecorino cheese, egg yolks, and the whole egg. Mix well and add a splash of pasta water to create a creamy consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Guanciale: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it (but reserve some pasta water) and add it to the skillet with the guanciale. Mix thoroughly.
- Create The Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and quickly add the egg and cheese mixture, stirring vigorously to prevent the eggs from scrambling. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with the reserved guanciale, additional pecorino cheese, and freshly ground black pepper.
Tips For Success
- Temperature Control: Ensure the skillet is off when adding the egg mixture to avoid scrambling.
- Pasta Water: The starchy water is crucial for achieving the right sauce consistency.
- Experiment: Feel free to adjust the amount of guanciale and cheese to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Filipa Gomes’ authentic Carbonara recipe is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine. With just a few quality ingredients and careful technique, you can create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a plate of delicious Carbonara that will impress your family and friends!
