When I first encountered Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara, I was swept off my feet. This dish captures the right balance of flavors, the essence of Italian cooking, and the comfort we all crave at the end of a long day. It’s simple yet elegant, and it has a story—a story about food that brings us together. So, let me take you on a journey through this delightful recipe.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara?
Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara is a reimagining of the classic Roman dish. While traditional carbonara features just a handful of ingredients, Jamie’s version leans into quality. It brings together dried spaghetti, egg yolks, pancetta, aged Parmesan cheese, a hint of garlic, drizzles of olive oil, capers, and freshly cracked black pepper.
What’s remarkable about this recipe is its heart; it’s not just about feeding the stomach; it’s about nourishing the soul. Imagine the aromas wafting through your kitchen as you whip up this dish.
The crispy pancetta sizzles in the pan, coaxing flavors from the olive oil, while the richness of the egg yolks promises a creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. It’s that moment when you realize that good food can transform an ordinary night into something magical.
Why You’ll Love This Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Carbonara
Here are a few reasons you will likely fall head-over-heels for this recipe:
- Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe calls for only a few high-quality ingredients. You don’t need an arsenal of spices or sauces.
- Quick Cooking: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Carbonara has a creamy texture and umami flavor that appeals to nearly everyone. It’s hard to resist a big bowl of this pasta.
- Comfort Food: Like a warm hug on a chilly day, this dish offers a slice of Italian coziness. It’s food that makes you feel good.
- Versatile Base: While it’s fantastic as is, this recipe can be adapted to include various ingredients, making it a canvas for creativity.
Now that you know why this recipe is a winner, let’s dive into the ingredients.
The Ingredients
Before you step into the culinary action, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara:
- 200g dried spaghetti
- 3 large organic egg yolks
- 1 x 150g slice of premium-quality pancetta
- 40g aged Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnishing
- 1 clove of fresh garlic, minced
- a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of capers, rinsed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
With your ingredients ready, let’s move on to preparing this culinary masterpiece!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the dried spaghetti, and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Save about a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water will be our secret weapon to create a silky sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
While your pasta cooks, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced pancetta, allowing it to crisp up nicely for about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the crispiness is key to the carbonara’s texture.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Capers
Once the pancetta is golden and sizzles with flavor, toss in the minced garlic and chopped capers. Stir them in for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic; we’re looking for a gentle warmth here.
Step 4: Mix the Egg Yolks
In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and freshly grated Parmesan. This mixture creates the creamy element of your carbonara. You want it to be smooth and luscious, so give it a good whisk!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
When the spaghetti is done, drain it, but remember that reserved pasta water. With the pan off the heat to prevent scrambling the eggs, quickly toss the spaghetti into the pancetta mixture. Mix it well.
Now here comes the magic. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot spaghetti, stirring quickly. The heat from the pasta will cook the yolks gently, transforming them into a creamy sauce. If it appears thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired creaminess.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finish off your dish with freshly cracked black pepper and a bit more Parmesan on top. You can also add additional salt if needed, but the pancetta and cheese often provide enough seasoning.
Now, serve your spaghetti carbonara hot. A sprinkle of parsley or a red chili flake can elevate the presentation just a notch.
Tips & Tricks
To make the best spaghetti carbonara, consider these handy tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: This dish relies heavily on each ingredient’s flavor. Choose organic eggs, high-quality pancetta, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Don’t Overcook the Egg Yolks: Timing is crucial. Pour the egg mixture on the pasta off the heat to prevent them from scrambling.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the quantity of cheese or pepper according to your preference.
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Ensure your pasta remains al dente to hold up in the sauce.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Incorporate seasonal vegetables or proteins for unique takes on this classic dish.
Nutrition Information
jamie oliver spaghetti carbonara recipe nutrition facts
Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara?
Sure! If you have leftovers (though I doubt they will last long), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat; you may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the creaminess.
Avoid freezing the dish, as the texture of the egg yolks may change upon thawing.
What Can I Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara?
Pairing this delicious pasta is essential to round out your meal. Here are some options:
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A light, fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the rich flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled seasonal veggies add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of cheeses for a fancy touch.
- Nice Glass of White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dining experience.
Variations
Let’s get creative with these intriguing variations of Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara:
- Mushroom Carbonara: Add sautéed mushrooms to the pancetta for an earthy touch.
- Lemon Zest Carbonara: A sprinkle of lemon zest offers a bright flavor lift.
- Vegetable Carbonara: Toss in some peas, asparagus, or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Smoked Salmon Carbonara: Replace pancetta with smoked salmon for a luxurious twist.
- Bacon and Avocado Carbonara: Add crispy bacon pieces and chunks of ripe avocado for a creamy bite.
Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the dried spaghetti, and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Save about a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water will be our secret weapon to create a silky sauce.
- While your pasta cooks, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced pancetta, allowing it to crisp up nicely for about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the crispiness is key to the carbonara’s texture.
- Once the pancetta is golden and sizzles with flavor, toss in the minced garlic and chopped capers. Stir them in for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic; we’re looking for a gentle warmth here.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and freshly grated Parmesan. This mixture creates the creamy element of your carbonara. You want it to be smooth and luscious, so give it a good whisk!
- When the spaghetti is done, drain it, but remember that reserved pasta water. With the pan off the heat to prevent scrambling the eggs, quickly toss the spaghetti into the pancetta mixture. Mix it well.
- Now here comes the magic. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the hot spaghetti, stirring quickly. The heat from the pasta will cook the yolks gently, transforming them into a creamy sauce. If it appears thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired creaminess.
- Finish off your dish with freshly cracked black pepper and a bit more Parmesan on top. You can also add additional salt if needed, but the pancetta and cheese often provide enough seasoning.
- Now, serve your spaghetti carbonara hot. A sprinkle of parsley or a red chili flake can elevate the presentation just a notch.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Quality Ingredients: This dish relies heavily on each ingredient’s flavor. Choose organic eggs, high-quality pancetta, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Don’t Overcook the Egg Yolks: Timing is crucial. Pour the egg mixture on the pasta off the heat to prevent them from scrambling.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the quantity of cheese or pepper according to your preference.
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Ensure your pasta remains al dente to hold up in the sauce.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Incorporate seasonal vegetables or proteins for unique takes on this classic dish.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Carbonara is more than just pasta; it’s a celebration of flavors and a culinary adventure that unites us over hearty, comforting food. The balmy aromas will fill your kitchen and beckon loved ones to gather around the table.
As you dive into this dish, remember it’s not only about the food but also the joyous moments shared with others. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delicious experience that might just become a staple in your kitchen.
After all, cooking is a journey, and this carbonara is a delightful pitstop worth savoring! Bon appétit!