Spaghetti alla Amatriciana

Spaghetti alla Amatriciana Recipe - A Delicious Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spaghetti alla Amatriciana is a classic Italian pasta dish that originated in the town of Amatrice in the Lazio region of Italy. This flavorful and hearty dish is made with simple ingredients like bacon, tomatoes, and onions, making it a popular choice for a quick and delicious meal.

History

Spaghetti alla Amatriciana has a long history dating back to the 18th century when shepherds in the region would make a similar dish using ingredients they had on hand. Over time, the recipe evolved to include the addition of tomatoes and became the beloved dish we know today.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
6 slices lean bacon, diced
0.25 cup dry white wine
1 lb (454 g) canned peeled tomatoes, drained
0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
0.5 tsp dried oregano
1 lb (454 g) spaghetti, cooked for 10 to 12 minutes, drained, and kept hot
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

In a pan, heat olive or sunflower oil over medium heat.
When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic.
Fry, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until the onion is soft but not brown.
Stir in the bacon and cook for another 4 minutes.
Stir constantly.
Add wine and bring the liquid to a boil.
Boil rapidly for 2 minutes, then add the tomatoes.
Stir in the salt, pepper, and oregano and bring the liquid to a boil again.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 15 minutes more.
Stir occasionally.
Remove from heat.
Put spaghetti in a large deep serving dish and pour the sauce over it, using 2 large spoons.
Toss the mixture until thoroughly coated with sauce.
Sprinkle the grated cheese over it and serve immediately.

Variations

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use pancetta instead of bacon for a different flavor.
Add fresh basil or parsley for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a nice crunch to the dish.

- Use a good quality canned tomato for the best flavor.

- Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spaghetti alla Amatriciana with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add texture to the dish.

- Use a large deep serving dish to toss the pasta and sauce together thoroughly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pancetta instead of bacon for a different flavor.

- Use pecorino cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before tossing with the cooked pasta.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spaghetti alla Amatriciana in a large pasta bowl and sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spaghetti alla Amatriciana with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

Calories: 450 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 65g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% of daily value

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value

Calcium: 25% of daily value

Iron: 10% of daily value

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (spaghetti)

Summary

Spaghetti alla Amatriciana is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Spaghetti alla Amatriciana is a classic Italian pasta dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and a few cooking tips, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little village in Italy. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on espresso, she suddenly jumped up with excitement.

"Nonna, I have a special recipe to share with you today," Maria exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

I couldn't help but smile at her infectious energy. Maria was known for her delicious homemade dishes, and I was always eager to learn from her. She rummaged through her kitchen drawers until she found a worn-out piece of paper with scribbled notes in Italian.

"This is my family's secret recipe for Spaghetti alla Amatriciana," she said proudly, handing me the paper. "I learned it from my nonna, who learned it from her nonna, and so on. It's a traditional dish from our region, and I know you'll love it."

I thanked Maria profusely and studied the recipe carefully. The ingredients were simple yet flavorful – pancetta, onions, tomatoes, pecorino cheese, and of course, spaghetti. As I read through the instructions, Maria shared stories of her childhood and how her family would gather around the table to enjoy this dish together.

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. The next day, I set to work in my own kitchen, following Maria's instructions to the letter. The smell of frying pancetta and onions filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. As I added the tomatoes and let the sauce simmer, I felt a sense of connection to Maria and her family, even though we were miles apart.

Finally, the spaghetti was cooked al dente, and I tossed it in the rich, savory sauce. I plated the dish and sprinkled it with generous amounts of grated pecorino cheese. The first bite was a revelation – the flavors were robust and comforting, a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the culinary heritage that Maria had shared with me.

From that day on, Spaghetti alla Amatriciana became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on lazy Sundays. Every time I cooked it, I thought of Maria and the bond we shared through our love of food.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different types of tomatoes, spices, and even substituting bacon for the pancetta when I couldn't find it at the store. But no matter how I tweaked it, the essence of the dish remained the same – a celebration of tradition, family, and the simple joys of a well-cooked meal.

As I grew older, I passed on the recipe to my own grandchildren, regaling them with stories of Maria and our culinary adventures in Italy. They would sit wide-eyed as I cooked, eager to learn the secrets of Spaghetti alla Amatriciana and carry on the tradition for generations to come.

And so, every time I make this dish, I feel a connection not only to Maria and her family but to all the generations of women who came before us, passing down their knowledge and love through the simple act of cooking. Spaghetti alla Amatriciana is more than just a recipe – it's a tribute to our shared heritage, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am forever grateful. Grazie mille, Maria, for sharing your family's secret with me.