Ingredients:
- 200g guanciale (cured pork cheek), diced
- 400g canned tomatoes, crushed
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 100g pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500g pasta of your choice
Step 1: Fry the Guanciale
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced guanciale and sauté until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Ensure that all sides of the guanciale are evenly cooked.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the guanciale is cooked, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its aroma.
Step 3: Incorporate Crushed Tomatoes
Next, pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the guanciale, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Step 4: Season with Red Pepper Flakes, Salt, and Pepper
Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the simmering sauce. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spiciness. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning into the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Sauce and Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the Amatriciana sauce. Toss the pasta gently to ensure it is well coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Sprinkle with Pecorino Romano Cheese
Transfer the pasta with Amatriciana sauce to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle each portion generously with grated pecorino Romano cheese. The cheese will melt slightly and add a lovely tangy flavor to the dish.
There you have it! A step-by-step guide to making authentic Amatriciana sauce. This classic Italian sauce is bursting with flavors and is sure to impress your family and friends. Buon appetito!