Signora Sheila

This delicious Italian favorite originated in the Appenine hills of the Lazio region, and is thought to have been a staple dish for shepherds, because the ingredients were easy to transport or obtain. The name comes from “carbonaro” which means coal miner, because of the black pepper used to season it.

Pasta alla Carbonara

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Difficulty: easy
• Rating: ★★★★★
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A hearty pasta dish, especially nice on a cold winter day!

The eggs cook as they are stirred into the hot pasta. The trick is to let them cook just enough to thicken into a creamy sauce, but not scramble.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of spaghetti (or any pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
• 8 ounces pancetta or slab bacon, cubed*
• 1-2 cloves fresh garlic, pressed or minced
• 3-4 large fresh eggs
• Freshly grated cheese to taste, Parmigiano and/or Pecorino (optional)
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Sea salt, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and pancetta; sauté until crispy and golden, about 3 minutes. Set aside.
2. Whisk the eggs in a small bowl; set aside.
3. Bring a large quantity of salted water (approx. 6-8 quarts) to boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring often, or until al dente (firm but not mushy). Drain.
4. Return the pancetta over medium heat long enough to heat thoroughly.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the pancetta and toss together.
6. Add the beaten eggs, tossing together quickly. The heat of the pasta will cook the eggs. But you need to work quickly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Top with grated cheese (and if desired, fresh parsley).
8. Serve immediately.

*Outside of Italy pancetta is usually available in speciality shops, but if you can’t find any, substitute unsmoked bacon or pork jowl.

🍷 SUGGESTED WINE:

Castelli Romani Rosso DOC

Many people prefer a white wine with this dish because of the egg. But since it’s a hearty dish, I personally think a red wine is more appropriate. So, in keeping with the old adage “if it grows together it goes together,” I suggest you try Castelli Romani. Grown in the hills just southeast of Rome, this ruby red dry wine with its intense floral bouquet is just right with Carbonara on a chilly winter day. Serve at about 16°C (60°F). 🥂 Cin-cin (or cheers) and buon appetito!

📷 Image credits: spaghetti in pan; spaghetti in bowl