Carbonara

Carbonara

Carbonara of Italian Tomato Cafe

Carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome. It typically consists of spaghetti, egg yolks, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (a type of cured pork jowl), black pepper, and occasionally garlic. The dish is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

History

The exact origin of carbonara is unclear, but it is believed to have been created in Rome after World War II. Some stories suggest that the dish was created by American soldiers who had access to bacon and eggs, while others believe it was created by Italian charcoal workers who used bacon and eggs as a quick and easy meal.

Regardless of its origins, carbonara quickly became a popular dish in Italy and around the world. It is now commonly found on menus in Italian restaurants and is a favorite among pasta lovers.

spaguetis_carbonara

Preparation

To make carbonara, spaghetti is typically boiled in salted water until it is al dente. While the pasta is cooking, the guanciale is fried until it is crispy. The eggs yolks and grated Pecorino Romano cheese are then whisked together in a separate bowl.

Once the spaghetti is cooked, it is drained and added to the pan with the guanciale. The egg and cheese mixture is then added to the pan and tossed with the spaghetti until it is fully coated. Black pepper is then added to taste.

Variations

While the traditional carbonara recipe consists of spaghetti, egg yolks, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale, and black pepper, there are many variations of the dish. Some people add cream or butter to the egg mixture to create a creamier texture, while others substitute pancetta or bacon for the guanciale. Vegetarian versions of the dish can be made by using mushrooms or tofu in place of the meat.

Health Benefits

While carbonara is not necessarily a low-calorie or low-fat dish, it does contain a number of health benefits. The eggs and cheese provide protein and calcium, while the guanciale or bacon contains healthy fats. The black pepper used in the dish has also been shown to have antioxidant properties.

However, it is important to note that carbonara is a high-calorie dish and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

See also

• Italian cuisine
• Pasta alla gricia
• Spaghetti alla puttanesca

External links

• BBC Good Food: Spaghetti carbonara recipe

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