Ingredients:
- 250g guanciale
- 400g spaghetti
- 4 large egg yolks
- 100g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Guanciale
Start by cutting the guanciale into small cubes or thin strips, depending on your preference. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the guanciale. Cook it until it becomes crispy and releases its flavorful fat. Remove the cooked guanciale from the skillet, leaving the fat behind.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the instructions on the package. Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the cooking water.
Step 3: Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and a pinch of black pepper. The result should be a creamy mixture. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking water to the sauce to loosen it up slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
In the same skillet used to cook the guanciale, add the drained pasta and toss it in the remaining fat to coat it evenly. Turn off the heat and pour the carbonara sauce over the pasta. Stir well to ensure each strand of spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add more cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
Finally, sprinkle the crispy guanciale on top of the pasta and give it a final toss. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Buon appetito!
Tips for a Perfect Carbonara:
- Use high-quality guanciale for the best flavor. If you can’t find guanciale, pancetta can be a good substitute.
- Make sure to cook the guanciale until crispy to add that delicious crunch to the dish.
- When adding the carbonara sauce to the pasta, ensure the skillet is off the heat. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and ensures a creamy consistency.
- For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat spaghetti or even zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta.
Now that you have mastered the art of making authentic carbonara with guanciale, it’s time to invite your friends or family over for a taste of Italy. Enjoy the rich flavors and indulgent textures of this classic dish, and feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your preferences. Happy cooking!