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Spicy Carbonara

Creamy Spicy Carbonara That Will Ignite Your Taste Buds

A delightful twist on classic carbonara, this Spicy Carbonara features Calabrian chili for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 300 grams Spaghetti alla chitarra Linguine is a nice substitute if needed.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Use a high-quality oil for best results.
  • 150 grams Guanciale or smoked bacon Pancetta works as a good alternative.
  • 4 large Egg yolks Ensure you use fresh eggs for safety and richness.
  • 100 grams Parmigiano Reggiano Pecorino is a sharper substitute option.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Calabrian chili Adjust based on your heat tolerance.
  • 1 tablespoon Tomato paste Can be omitted for a more traditional carbonara.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian parsley Basil can provide a different flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Garnish for mild onion flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sauté Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Carbonara
  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti alla chitarra and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Save one cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Add the chopped guanciale and sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the fresh egg yolks, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, crushed Calabrian chili, and a dollop of tomato paste. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Once the spaghetti is cooked al dente, drain it well and transfer it to the sauté pan with the crispy guanciale. Toss thoroughly in the guanciale and oil for 1-2 minutes on low heat.
  5. Remove the sauté pan from direct heat and rapidly pour the egg mixture over the pasta while tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
  6. Toss in the freshly chopped Italian parsley before serving to enhance flavor and aesthetic.
  7. Serve immediately in wide, shallow bowls and garnish with chives and extra grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 24gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize Spicy Carbonara to make it truly yours! For the best flavor, enjoy it freshly made.

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