Delia Smith Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Name: Delia Smith's Spaghetti Carbonara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 350g spaghetti; 200g pancetta, cubed; 2 large eggs; 50g Pecorino cheese, grated; 50g Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Delve into the classic Italian delight with Delia Smith's Spaghetti Carbonara, a recipe that masterfully combines the robust flavors of smoked pancetta with the creamy texture of eggs and cheese. This dish, a favorite among Romans, is renowned for its simplicity and depth of flavor, making it a staple in the realm of Italian cuisine.

Delia Smith Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe: A Glimpse into Italian Tradition

Cultural or Historical Context Spaghetti Carbonara is a quintessential Roman dish that stands out for its straightforward yet rich flavor profile. Traditionally made with guanciale or pancetta, Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese, eggs, and black pepper, it captures the essence of Italian culinary simplicity and excellence.

Ingredients for the Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti: 225-300g, depending on your preference for portion size.
Smoked Pancetta: 100-150g, sliced, offering that quintessential smoky depth.
Eggs: 2 large ones, plus 2 extra yolks to enrich the sauce.
Cheese: 4 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano, finely grated, plus extra for serving.
Double Cream: 4 tablespoons, adding a luxurious texture.
Seasoning: Freshly milled black pepper for that spicy kick.

Preparation Instructions for the Spaghetti Carbonara

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente in salted water. Concurrently, crisp up the pancetta in a frying pan without extra oil.
Whisk together eggs, yolks, cream, and a generous amount of black pepper, then combine with the drained pasta and pancetta, ensuring the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano cheese.

Storage and Reheating

To store, place the cooled carbonara in an airtight container and refrigerate. It's best enjoyed within 1-2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive its creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

This dish is rich in proteins and fats, thanks to the eggs, cheese, and pancetta. For those mindful of their intake, consider portion sizes or adjust the ingredients accordingly.

FAQ about the Spaghetti Carbonara

Can I substitute pancetta? Yes, while pancetta is traditional, smoked bacon can be used as a substitute.
What pasta can I use? Linguini or spaghetti is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce.
Is there a cream in traditional Carbonara? While not traditional, cream is added in some variations for extra richness.

This recipe is from "The Delia Collection: Italian," reflecting Delia Smith's adaptation of the classic using accessible ingredients without compromising on the authentic Italian taste.

For a more detailed step-by-step guide, including exact measurements and additional tips, visit Delia Online and Delia Cooks Food Blog.