The Simple Carbonara - A Quick and Easy Pasta Dish

TLDRLearn how to make a creamy and delicious carbonara pasta without using cream or milk. All you need is spaghetti, guanciale (or pancetta), eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and water. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that anyone can make!

Key insights

🍝Carbonara pasta can be made without using cream or milk, making it a lighter and healthier alternative.

🥓Guanciale, a type of cured meat made from pork cheek, is the traditional choice for carbonara, but pancetta or bacon can also be used as substitutes.

🧀Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the carbonara sauce.

🍽️Carbonara is a quick and easy dish that can be prepared in less than 30 minutes.

💦Adding a small amount of water to the egg mixture helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.

Q&A

Can I use bacon instead of guanciale or pancetta?

Yes, bacon can be used as a substitute for guanciale or pancetta in carbonara.

Is carbonara sauce made with cream?

No, traditional carbonara sauce does not contain cream. It is made with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and pasta water.

How long does it take to cook the pasta for carbonara?

The pasta should be cooked for about 7-8 minutes, or until al dente.

What can I serve with carbonara?

Carbonara can be served on its own or with a side salad or garlic bread.

Can I use spaghetti instead of other types of pasta?

Yes, spaghetti is the traditional pasta choice for carbonara, but you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the recipe and its simplicity.

00:24Cooking the spaghetti and preparing the egg mixture.

02:22Cooking the guanciale (or pancetta) until crispy.

03:10Mixing the cooked spaghetti with the egg and cheese mixture.

03:58Adding the cooked guanciale and mixing everything together.

04:46Adding water and more cheese to create a creamy sauce.

05:47Letting the carbonara rest before serving.

06:08Plating the carbonara and adding finishing touches.