Spaghetti Amatriciana

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Are you looking for a mouthwatering and flavorful pasta dish that will leave you wanting more?

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Spaghetti Amatriciana
Prep
1 hr 5 min
Cook
30 min
Total
1 hr 5 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil, guanciale, and onions.

  2. Sprinkle with salt and cook the guanciale until caramelized, about 5 minutes.

  3. Add the garlic and sauté until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.

  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Calabrian chile paste, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

  5. Season with a few pinches of salt to taste (remember that the cheese added later will add saltiness).

  6. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes to avoid scorching. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

  7. In a separate large pot, bring well-salted water to a boil over high heat (similar to the ocean's saltiness).

  8. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until slightly undercooked (the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce).

  9. Take 2 tablespoons of pasta water and add it to the sauce.

  10. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce.

  11. Cook over high heat for approximately 2 minutes until the sauce coats the noodles.

  12. Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl.

  13. Mix in the Pecorino cheese and butter.

  14. Divide the pasta into individual serving bowls.

  15. Garnish each bowl with additional grated Pecorino cheese.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering and flavorful pasta dish that will leave you wanting more? Look no further than Spaghetti Amatriciana! This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser with its combination of pasta, tomato sauce, pancetta, and pecorino cheese. In this article, we will explore the origins of Spaghetti Amatriciana, its key ingredients, and how to make this delicious dish. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

The Origins of Spaghetti Amatriciana

Spaghetti Amatriciana hails from the town of Amatrice in Italy. Legend has it that this dish was created by shepherds who used to travel and graze their sheep in the mountains. With limited ingredients available, they made a simple yet flavorful pasta dish using cured pork, onions, and pecorino cheese. Over time, this humble dish gained popularity and is now a beloved Italian classic.

The Key Ingredients

Spaghetti Amatriciana is all about the ingredients that come together to create a burst of flavors. The star of the dish is pancetta, a type of Italian bacon that adds a rich and smoky taste. The tomato sauce provides a tangy and sweet element that balances perfectly with the savory pancetta. To add a touch of heat, red pepper flakes are added, giving the dish a little kick. Finally, the dish is topped with grated pecorino cheese, which adds a salty and nutty flavor.

Pancetta: The Savory Delight

Pancetta is the secret ingredient that takes Spaghetti Amatriciana to the next level. It is made from pork belly that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices. The pancetta is then cured and dried, resulting in a flavorful and slightly fatty bacon-like meat. When cooked, it releases its delicious aroma and infuses the sauce with its smoky goodness.

Tomato Sauce: Tangy and Sweet

The tomato sauce is the heart of Spaghetti Amatriciana. Made from ripe tomatoes, it adds a burst of freshness and acidity to the dish. The sauce is cooked down with onions, garlic, and a hint of red wine, creating a robust flavor profile. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes balances perfectly with the salty pancetta, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

Red Pepper Flakes: A Fiery Kick

If you like a little heat in your dishes, then red pepper flakes are a must in Spaghetti Amatriciana. These tiny flakes add a fiery kick that elevates the flavors and adds a touch of excitement. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy kick, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Pecorino Cheese: The Perfect Finish

No Spaghetti Amatriciana is complete without a generous sprinkle of pecorino cheese. This aged Italian cheese made from sheep's milk adds a salty and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. The cheese melts slightly when added to the hot pasta, creating a creamy and indulgent experience with each bite.

Making Spaghetti Amatriciana

Now that you know the origins and key ingredients of Spaghetti Amatriciana, it's time to learn how to make this delectable dish. The process is simple and can be easily mastered by home cooks of all skill levels.

Step 1Cook the Pancetta

In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until it turns crispy and golden brown. The rendered fat from the pancetta will flavor the sauce and give it a rich taste.

Step 2Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add onions and garlic to the rendered fat and sauté until they become translucent. Then, add the tomato sauce and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of the cooking water.

Step 4Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up. Serve the Spaghetti Amatriciana hot, topped with a generous sprinkling of grated pecorino cheese.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?

While pancetta is the traditional choice for Spaghetti Amatriciana, you can use bacon as a substitute. Keep in mind that bacon may have a slightly different flavor profile, but it will still result in a delicious dish.

Is Spaghetti Amatriciana spicy?

The spiciness of Spaghetti Amatriciana can be adjusted based on your preference. If you enjoy a mild kick, use a small amount of red pepper flakes. For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is traditionally used in Spaghetti Amatriciana, you can experiment with different types of pasta. Penne, rigatoni, or even linguine can work well with the flavorful sauce.

Can I make Spaghetti Amatriciana vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Spaghetti Amatriciana by omitting the pancetta. The sauce will still be flavorful and delicious, thanks to the combination of tomatoes, onions, and spices.

How long does it take to make Spaghetti Amatriciana?

It takes approximately 30 minutes to make Spaghetti Amatriciana from start to finish. It's a quick and satisfying dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Can I freeze leftover Spaghetti Amatriciana?

Yes, you can freeze

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