Pasta night just got an exciting upgrade! Forget the heavy cream; we're making Carbonara Pinoy style – a lighter, fresher take on this beloved Italian classic, perfectly suited for Filipino palates. This recipe is packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bacon or pancetta, cooked until crispy
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using) until well combined. Season generously with salt and pepper. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Quickly pour the egg mixture over the pasta, tossing constantly to coat. The residual heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Serve
Stir in the crispy bacon. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Carbonara:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is crucial for the best texture in carbonara.
- Work quickly: The egg mixture cooks from the heat of the pasta, so it's essential to toss constantly and work efficiently to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Freshly grated Parmesan is key: Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose which can prevent the sauce from emulsification.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Season generously with salt and pepper throughout the process.
Variations:
- Spicy Carbonara: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Carbonara: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
- Chicken Carbonara: Add cooked and shredded chicken for extra protein.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Pinoy-style Carbonara is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy!