Jamie Oliver Taste of Italy Recipe: Classic carbonara and Crunchy porcini breadcrumbs

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine with Jamie Oliver's Taste of Italy recipe for Classic Carbonara and Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs. This dish encapsulates the traditional flavors of Rome, combining the richness of eggs and cheese with the distinct textures of pasta and breadcrumbs. Jamie Oliver, through his book "Jamie Cooks Italy," brings this comforting pasta to your kitchen, offering a twist with the addition of crunchy porcini breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Classic Carbonara and Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs

• For the Carbonara:
  • 80g of guanciale or smoked pancetta
  • 300g dried spaghetti or bucatini
  • 2 large eggs
  • 50g Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs:
  • 10g dried porcini mushrooms
  • 80g stale rustic bread
  • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • ½ tablespoon black peppercorns

Preparation Instructions

1. Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs Preparation: Begin by blending the guanciale skin (if available) with porcini mushrooms, rosemary, and stale bread into rough crumbs. Toast these in a dry pan until golden.
2. Carbonara Preparation: Cook your pasta al dente, while separately frying the guanciale chunks with pepper until golden. Beat eggs in a bowl and mix with most of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Combine the pasta with the guanciale, adding some pasta water to bring it together. Remove from heat and carefully mix in the egg and cheese mixture, ensuring the eggs do not scramble.
4. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of the golden breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Storage and Reheating

To maintain the dish's quality, it's best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding a little water to keep the sauce creamy.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a hearty meal. The dish is high in calories, so it's perfect for those looking for a rich and fulfilling pasta experience.

FAQ about the Classic Carbonara and Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs

• Can I substitute pancetta for guanciale? Yes, smoked pancetta is a great alternative if guanciale is not available.
• What type of pasta is best for carbonara? Traditional recipes call for spaghetti, but bucatini can also be used for a different texture.

Jamie Oliver's Classic Carbonara with Crunchy Porcini Breadcrumbs is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Italian cooking, where quality ingredients and straightforward techniques result in a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated​​​​​​.