Rice alla Carbonara

Rice alla Carbonara Recipe - A Classic Italian Dish with Ham and Bacon

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice alla Carbonara is a delicious and creamy Italian dish that combines the flavors of bacon, ham, and parmesan cheese with rice. This dish is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

History

Rice alla Carbonara is a variation of the classic Italian pasta dish, Spaghetti alla Carbonara. The original Carbonara sauce is made with eggs, cheese, bacon, and black pepper. This recipe swaps out the pasta for rice, creating a hearty and filling meal.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of cooked ham, julienned
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
1 tbsp of olive oil
3 cups of cooked rice
0.5 lb (227 g) of sliced bacon, cooked crisp and diced
0.67 cup of grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp of ground white pepper
0.75 cup of heavy cream

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook ham strips in butter and oil over medium heat until the ham is slightly browned.
Add rice, bacon, cheese, parsley, pepper, and cream. Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and thoroughly heated.

Variations

Use different types of cheese such as pecorino romano or asiago for a unique flavor.
Substitute the ham for cooked chicken or shrimp for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the ham strips until they are slightly browned to enhance their flavor.

- Stir the rice mixture constantly to ensure that it becomes creamy and thoroughly heated.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables such as peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice alla Carbonara with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crisp to add a crunchy texture to the dish.

- Use a large skillet to ensure that all of the ingredients are thoroughly heated and combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice alla Carbonara can be made ahead of time and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Be sure to stir the dish well to recombine the ingredients.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Rice alla Carbonara with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Rice alla Carbonara with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Rice alla Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice alla Carbonara contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice alla Carbonara contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice alla Carbonara contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice alla Carbonara contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice alla Carbonara is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and pork (bacon), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or pork allergies.

Summary

Rice alla Carbonara is a rich and creamy dish that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an indulgent treat.

Summary

Rice alla Carbonara is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day in Rome, and I was wandering through the bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. I had always been a lover of Italian cuisine, and I was on a mission to discover new and exciting recipes to add to my repertoire.

As I passed by a quaint little trattoria, the delicious aroma of garlic and pancetta wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame. I couldn't resist the temptation to peek inside and see what was cooking. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the chefs were hard at work in the open kitchen, creating mouth-watering dishes with skill and precision.

I found a seat at the bar and ordered a glass of wine, watching intently as the chef prepared a dish that caught my eye. It was a simple yet elegant dish of creamy rice, studded with crispy pancetta and coated in a rich, velvety sauce. I knew I had to try it.

When the dish arrived at my table, I took my first bite and was immediately transported to food heaven. The flavors were bold and comforting, the texture creamy and satisfying. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the chance to experience such culinary perfection.

After finishing my meal, I approached the chef and asked him about the dish I had just enjoyed. He smiled warmly and told me that it was a traditional Roman recipe called Rice alla Carbonara. He explained that it was a dish that had been passed down through generations in his family, and he was proud to continue the tradition.

I begged him to share the recipe with me, and after much persuasion, he relented. He took me into the kitchen and showed me how to make the dish from scratch, guiding me through each step with patience and expertise. I took notes furiously, determined to recreate the magic of Rice alla Carbonara in my own kitchen.

Back at home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the chef's instructions to the letter. I sautéed the pancetta until it was crispy and golden, then added garlic and onions to infuse the dish with flavor. I cooked the rice until it was creamy and tender, then stirred in a mixture of eggs, cheese, and pepper to create a luscious sauce.

When the dish was finally finished, I couldn't wait to dig in. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors that had captured my heart in Rome. It was just as delicious as I remembered, a perfect balance of savory and creamy, rich and comforting.

Since that fateful day in Rome, Rice alla Carbonara has become a staple in my kitchen. I make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. The recipe has become a cherished treasure, a reminder of the magical moment when I discovered the beauty of Italian cuisine.

I am eternally grateful to the kind chef who shared his family recipe with me, and I will always hold the memory of that day close to my heart. Rice alla Carbonara will forever hold a special place on my table, a symbol of the love and passion that goes into every dish I create. And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of creamy rice, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life. Buon appetito!