Papal fettuccine is a pasta dish that is made with a creamy tomato sauce, pancetta, and onions. The dish is believed to have been invented by Pope Pius XII’s personal chef Angelo Parravicini in the 1930s. The recipe has been passed down from chef to chef over the years, and it remains a significant part of Vatican cuisine.
The recipe for Papal fettuccine is relatively simple, but it requires the use of high-quality ingredients and the right technique. Here is the recipe for Papal fettuccine.
Ingredients:
1 lb. fettuccine pasta
6 oz. pancetta, diced
1/2 yellow onion, diced
1 can (28 oz.) San Marzano tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour the tomatoes into the skillet with the onion. Bring the mixture to a boil and then lower the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the tomato mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender.
6. Add the heavy cream and butter to the tomato sauce and stir until the butter has melted.
7. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it has melted.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the cooked pancetta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
9. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
The result is an incredibly creamy and flavourful pasta dish that will delight any guest at your table. Papal fettuccine may be simple, but it is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any special occasion, especially during the Christmas season.
At the Vatican, Papal fettuccine is often served during Christmas dinner, which is an important tradition for Catholics. The dinner is attended by the Pope and his invited guests, who are typically members of the clergy or religious groups. This dinner is a time for reflection, celebration, and of course, great food.
In conclusion, Papal fettuccine is a delicious and timeless dish that has become a staple at the Vatican during the Christmas season. While the dish may have humble beginnings, it has grown to become an important part of Vatican cuisine, and it continues to delight visitors and clergy alike. The recipe is simple, but the ingredients and technique make it a special and indulgent treat that is perfect for any special occasion, especially Christmas.