Spaghetti carbonara, recipe with cream
Spaghetti Carbonara with Cream: A Classic Recipe with a Modern Twist
Often associated with quick and comforting meals, the spaghetti carbonara recipe is a symbol of Italian cuisine, but it has evolved over time, with variations that include cream to create a rich and creamy texture. This spaghetti carbonara recipe with cream is perfect for those who want to bring a touch of comfort to every plate. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious dish, step by step, to achieve a perfect result.
Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g spaghetti
- 5-6 slices of pork tenderloin or bacon
- 100 g cream (choose cream with at least 20% fat content for a creamy texture)
- 100 g grated parmesan (preferably freshly grated for an intense flavor)
- 2 eggs (only the yolks are used)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Dried basil (optional, for flavor)
- Dried oregano (optional, for flavor)
The story behind the recipe
The carbonara recipe has its origins in a rich culinary tradition that starts with simple yet quality ingredients. It is said to have been created by shepherds who prepared their meals in the midst of forests, using only what they had on hand. Even though the classic version does not include cream, its addition has become popular in various corners of the world, enriching the dish with a velvety texture.
Prepare step by step:
1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a good handful of salt. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This aspect is crucial; the pasta should not be too soft to maintain its texture.
2. Prepare the meat: While the pasta is boiling, slice the pork tenderloin or bacon into thin strips. In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the strips of meat and fry until crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step will add a savory flavor to the dish.
3. Prepare the cream mixture: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the cream and grated parmesan until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This is the secret to achieving a fine and creamy sauce. Make sure the mixture is not too cold, as contact with the hot pasta will help gently cook the yolks.
4. Combine the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it, reserving a cup of the boiling water. Add the spaghetti to the skillet over the fried meat, mixing well to combine the flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cream mixture, stirring quickly to avoid curdling the yolks. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to adjust its consistency.
5. Season: Add salt, basil, and oregano to taste. These herbs will enhance the flavor of the dish and add an aromatic note.
6. Serve: Divide the portions into deep plates, sprinkle with grated parmesan on top, and if desired, add a bit of fresh basil for a touch of freshness. Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Practical tips:
- Choose quality ingredients: The taste of the dish will largely depend on the quality of the ingredients. Choose smoked bacon or high-quality pork tenderloin for the best results.
- Avoid cooking the sauce over high heat: The yolks can curdle quickly if exposed to intense heat. Make sure to add the sauce to the pasta removed from the heat.
- Vary the recipe: You can add sautéed mushrooms or peas to bring a splash of color and additional texture.
- For an even more intense flavor: Experiment with adding fried garlic or caramelized onion to the skillet before adding the meat.
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: approximately 600 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
This spaghetti carbonara with cream recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. Whether it's a quick dinner during the week or a special weekend lunch, this dish will surely please everyone. Don't forget to experiment and put your personal touch on the recipe! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300 g pasta, 5-6 slices of pork tenderloin or bacon, 100 g sour cream, 100 g parmesan, 2 eggs (only the yolks are used), 2 tablespoons of oil, salt, basil, oregano
