What are the crimes against an authentic carbonara?
Carbonara is a beloved Italian pasta dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide. Its creamy, flavorful sauce made with eggs, guanciale, pecorino cheese, and black pepper has become a staple in many restaurants and kitchens. However, with its popularity comes the risk of imitations and alterations that can lead to crimes against an authentic carbonara. Some popular crimes include the use of cream, bacon instead of guanciale, and the use of Parmesan cheese instead of pecorino. These alterations not only change the taste but go against the traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations. In this article, we will explore the crimes against authentic carbonara and why preserving the traditional recipe is important for future generations to enjoy.
What is an authentic carbonara?
An authentic carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish that originates from Rome. It is traditionally made using simple ingredients such as eggs, cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), black pepper, and spaghetti or fettuccine.
The pasta is cooked until al dente and drained to prepare an authentic carbonara. Meanwhile, the guanciale is sautéed in a separate pan until crispy and golden. The cooked pasta is then added to the pan with the crispy pork, and the eggs and pecorino cheese mixture is quickly tossed off the heat. This creates a creamy and rich sauce that coats the pasta.
The dish is finished with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper and additional pecorino cheese.
Authentic carbonara is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the flavours of quality ingredients and skilled technique.
However, making a genuinely authentic carbonara can be challenging, as many recipes may include ingredients or techniques that depart from the traditional preparation.
If you want an authentic carbonara, don’t add anything else to the list of ingredients.
Also, follow those tricks for making real Italian pasta alla carbonara.
What are the Carbonara variations for desperate moments?
Carbonara is one of the most mistreated recipes ever! It makes Italians suffer a lot! While Carbonara is a classic Italian dish with specific ingredients and preparation methods, variations have emerged to suit different tastes and preferences. For those traditionalists, any deviations from the traditional recipe and preparation methods that compromise the essence and integrity of the dish are considered crimes against an authentic carbonara.
However, some variations can be made as quick alternatives when you are in desperate moments and don’t have access to all the traditional ingredients or time to prepare a classic carbonara. But remember: This is NOT an authentic carbonara.
Some of the common Carbonara variations include:
Creamy Carbonara - adding cream or milk
One of the cardinal sins against an authentic carbonara is the addition of cream or milk. The cream is often added to the sauce to make it richer and creamier. Many like to make Carbonara with cream, replacing 1 egg with 100 ml of whipping cream. For them, the dish is more creamy, and it has a less pronounced egg taste.
This deviates from the authentic Italian recipe, which relies on eggs for the creamy texture that emulsifies the eggs to create a smooth sauce. Adding cream or milk dilutes the flavours and alters the desired consistency.
Using the wrong type of pasta
Spaghetti or rigatoni are typically used in an authentic carbonara. Using other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, can detract from the traditional experience. But this allows for personal preference or availability of ingredients.
Egg noodles
Also, using egg noodles wouldn’t be good! The egg is already present in the sauce!
Overcooking the eggs
Properly cooked Carbonara has a creamy and velvety sauce, achieved by combining raw eggs with hot pasta. Overcooking the eggs results in a scrambled consistency, which is not characteristic of a traditional carbonara.
Incorrectly cooking the guanciale
Guanciale is a crucial ingredient in Carbonara, providing its distinct flavour. Improperly cooked or overly crispy guanciale can alter the balance and texture of the dish.
Omitting or substituting ingredients
Omitting or substituting these ingredients significantly impacts the taste and authenticity of the dish.
Pancetta or Bacon
People get wrong when they make Carbonara with substitute cheap bacon for guanciale (Italian cured meat prepared from pork jowl) or pancetta (Italian salt-cured bacon made from pork belly).
Pancetta is a cured Italian “bacon” that is usually not smoked and sometimes substitutes when guanciale is unavailable. Many people sometimes use pancetta in carbonara pasta because it’s easier to find it on the market. But more often, they use it because guanciale is rather fat meat, and there is no doubt that it is a hypercaloric ingredient. Pancetta is a good substitute in this recipe, but guanciale’s richer, deeper flavour and more delicate texture make it worth seeking out.
Pancetta is drier and less fat. If you use pancetta (possibly not smoked), add a tablespoon of oil to fry it.
Talking about variations, when cooking at home, failing to find Guanciale or Pancetta, bacon (the pork belly) is a super handy substitute.
Pancetta and bacon are made from pork belly, but pancetta is salt-cured and dried, while bacon is smoked. The pancetta will taste salty, while the bacon will be smoky.
Whatever you use, cook until nice and crispy for the best flavour.
Other cheese
Suppose you use Parmigiano-Reggiano or grated Parmesan cheese instead of Pecorino Romano or half Parmigiano cheese and half Pecorino Romano. The taste becomes less strong and flavourful (Pecorino Romano is a delicious cheese). Other common variations include cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan. It’s best to avoid mozzarella or pizza cheese blends.
Protein Options
Traditional Carbonara typically calls for guanciale, but Americanized versions may substitute these with other proteins such as chicken, ham, or shrimp. This allows for more variety and customization in the dish.
Vegetarian "Carbonara"
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the guanciale with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. These can provide a similar depth of flavour. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their taste.
Vegan "Carbonara"
Never say ‘carbonara’ and ‘vegan’ in the same sentence.
Eggless Carbonara
If you cannot consume eggs or prefer an eggless version, you can combine cream and cheese to create a creamy sauce. Omit the eggs and mix the cream with grated cheese, black pepper, and pasta cooking water to make the sauce. Can we still call it Carbonara? I don’t think so.
Adding unnecessary ingredients
Traditional Carbonara consists of a few key ingredients like eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale, and black pepper. Adding unnecessary ingredients such as onions, garlic, vegetables (e.g., peas, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes), herbs (e.g., parsley or basil), or spices (e.g., garlic powder or red pepper flakes) is considered a crime as it deviates from the simplicity of the original recipe. These additions aim to enhance the flavours and add more complexity to the dish.
Fat
No oil, no butter, no lard. Just the fat from guanciale.
Garlic or Onion
Many people like to simmer the guanciale with a clove of garlic or a little onion. This isn’t so authentic but adds a nicely gentle background flavour. Carbonara tastes a lot of onion and garlic – another recipe for another time. No garlic, no onion, it’s not a ragù! An Italian would never do that!
Peas
Also, peas are undesired guests. Pasta carbonara with peas does not compute under any circumstance.
Serving the pasta with peas isn’t going to balance out the dish; they’re just going to get overwhelmed and talked over by the more prominent flavours on board.
Herbs
Do NOT put parsley, basil or other spices everywhere!
Then again, if you need some green, perhaps Carbonara isn’t your dish.
These variations are not considered authentic Carbonara
It’s important to note that variations can vary widely and may differ.
These adaptations reflect evolving culinary tastes and preferences but may not align with the traditional Italian recipe. Still, they can provide a quick and satisfying alternative in desperate moments when you may not have access to all the traditional ingredients.
It is important to respect the essence of the original recipe
While variations and personal preferences exist, respecting an authentic Carbonara’s fundamental elements and preparation techniques is crucial to preserve its heritage and culinary excellence. Carbonara is known for its simplicity and the harmonious combination of ingredients like eggs, cheese, guanciale, and black pepper.
You're not the only one
I have also committed those Crimes against Carbonara. My first “carbonara” was nothing that Carbonara must be.
Try both, the authentic and the fake carbonara
Many purists argue that the only authentic carbonara is made with eggs, guanciale, pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. However, others argue that the variations of cream, bacon, or other ingredients can be just as delicious. I have both options and help you decide which version to try. Whether you’re a die-hard traditionalist or prefer a twist on a classic dish, there’s a carbonara recipe for you to enjoy.
I will tell you the truth, after I’ve made the authentic one I have never made the fake anymore.
If you agree with me and want an authentic carbonara, follow this recipe and don’t add anything else to the list of ingredients. Also, follow those tricks for making real Italian pasta alla carbonara.
This is the my fake Carbonara recipe
This is the my real Carbonara recipe
Why preserving the traditional Carbonara recipe is important for future generations to enjoy?
Preserving the traditional Carbonara recipe is important for future generations to enjoy for several reasons:
Cultural Heritage
The traditional Carbonara recipe is an integral part of Italian culinary heritage. By preserving the authentic recipe, we maintain a connection to the culture and history of Italy. It allows future generations to appreciate and understand the origins and traditions associated with this iconic dish.
Culinary Excellence
Authentic Carbonara represents a culinary masterpiece that has been perfected over generations. The specific combination of ingredients and techniques used in the traditional recipe creates a harmonious and unparalleled flavour profile. By preserving the original recipe, we ensure that future generations can experience and appreciate the exceptional taste and balance of flavours that make Carbonara unique.
Respect for Tradition
Honouring and preserving the traditional Carbonara recipe shows respect for the generations of cooks and chefs who have perfected this dish. It acknowledges their craftsmanship, dedication, and the artistry behind creating a perfectly balanced dish. By adhering to the traditional recipe, we pay homage to the culinary traditions that have been passed down for centuries.
Authenticity and Quality
Over time, the traditional Carbonara recipe has become a benchmark for quality and authenticity. By preserving the original recipe, we can distinguish between genuine Carbonara and the various emerging variations and imitations. This ensures that future generations can experience this iconic dish’s true essence and character.
Education and Learning
Preserving the traditional recipe allows future generations to learn the proper techniques, ingredients, and methods associated with Carbonara. Through this education, they can better understand culinary traditions, develop cooking skills, and appreciate the value of preserving cultural heritage.
By preserving the traditional Carbonara recipe, we ensure that future generations can enjoy an authentic and exceptional culinary experience and continue celebrating the rich history, culture, and craftsmanship of this beloved Italian dish.
This article is part of “Tricks for making an authentic carbonara”
I hope my easy tips will give you the confidence to step into the kitchen and prepare delicious meals to eat with a handful of close friends.
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