Carbonara

on Sep 17, 2023

Why You’ll Love Carbonara

Carbonara is pure comfort on a plate, creamy sauce, Guanciale (or pancetta), and a hint of spicy cracked black pepper 🧂—all within minutes of preparation. It’s an Italian classic that promises to satisfy your cravings with every bite.

Preparation of Carbonara

To prepare Carbonara, start with fresh and authentic ingredients—cube the Guanciale or bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, whisk together two egg yolks and one whole egg for a creamy texture. Grate your choice of cheese, Pecorino Romano is traditional but you can also use Parmigiano Reggiano (my preference) plus freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remember to have a ladle of starchy pasta water 💦ready; it’s the secret to binding the sauce perfectly. Cook your favorite pasta. Traditionally, spaghetti is used, but you can experiment with different shapes or types. Begin by boiling the pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, crisp up the cubed Guanciale or bacon in a separate pan until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove it from the heat, but keep the rendered fat in the pan. In a bowl, combine the whisked eggs with the grated cheese and black pepper to form the base of your creamy sauce. When the pasta is done, reserve a ladle of the starchy pasta water before draining it. Immediately return the hot, drained pasta to the pan off the heat with the rendered fat and guanciale. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta and toss everything together vigorously. The heat from the pasta and the pan will gently cook the eggs, creating a silky, creamy sauce. If needed, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired consistency. Plate the Carbonara immediately, garnishing it with extra grated cheese and a generous sprinkle of black pepper. Serve it piping hot and enjoy every bite of your authentic Italian 👨‍🍳 Carbonara. Buon appetito!

What is Guanciale

Guanciale is a type of cured pork derived from the pig’s cheek jowl, distinct from pancetta, which originates from the belly. Due to its origin, guanciale has a higher fat content, a crucial element for dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara and Bucatini all’Amatriciana. In case guanciale is unavailable, pancetta or regular bacon serves as an excellent alternative. Personally, I appreciate the versatility of regular bacon, especially when guanciale is not readily accessible.

History of Carbonara

The origins of Carbonara, a beloved Italian pasta dish, remain cloaked in uncertainty. While it’s often linked to the Lazio region, its roots are hazy. Carbonara is part of a family of pasta dishes featuring bacon, cheese, and pepper, similar to “Pasta Alla Gricia.“ The name “Carbonara” has several disputed origins, including ties to charcoal workers, secret societies, and urban legends. Its first documented appearance was in 1950, enjoyed by American officers in Post-World War II Rome. One theory credits a young Italian army cook for inventing Carbonara in 1944, capitalizing on an abundance of bacon, cream, cheese, and powdered egg yolks. Food historians suggest that Carbonara might have traversed the Atlantic, cementing its unique connection between Italy and the United States. Regardless of its origins, Carbonara’s is timeless, making it a cherished classic in Italian and international cuisine alike.

Variations and Substitutions

If you can’t find Guanciale, you can use pancetta or regular bacon. Omit the guanciale completely for a Vegetarian version of this dish. While Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano are the go-to cheeses, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago for a unique twist on flavor. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to try this recipe with any gluten-free pasta of choice.

Best Served With

Carbonara is a hearty pasta dish, so it pairs well with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal.

A fresh, crisp salad 🥗 with a light vinaigrette or lemon-based dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy Carbonara. A side of toasted baguette 🥖 slices or my cheesy roasted garlic bread would add a crunch and garlicky flavor that complements the dish. Roasted asparagus, broccoli 🥦, or cherry tomatoes can add a burst of flavor to your meal.

Similar Recipes

If you love Carbonara, you’ll love some of my other favorite pasta recipes here:

This Pasta Limone is one of my favorite pasta dishes. This creamy and easy hidden veggie pasta sauce is a total gamechanger. Kids and adults will never know that there are 5 to 6 hidden veggies in here. My creamy broccoli ricotta pasta is one of my favorite ways to consume a hardy serving of vegetables. Here, broccoli, spinach, and onions are blended with ricotta into a silky smooth, creamy sauce. 

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