Carbonara Day

Welcome, pasta aficionados, to the celebration of Carbonara Day! On April 6th, we embark on a journey to honour one of Italy's most cherished culinary treasures – the classic Carbonara. This rich and indulgent dish, featuring the perfect balance of creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, is a symphony of flavours that deserves to be celebrated.

Classic Carbonara recipe
Ingredients:

• 400g spaghetti
• 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, sauté the pancetta or guanciale in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, salt, and black pepper.
4. When the pasta is ready, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and add it to the pan with the crispy pancetta. Toss to coat the pasta with the rendered fat.
5. Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for a smoother consistency.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade classic Carbonara!

1. Choosing the right pasta: Elevate your Carbonara game by selecting the perfect pasta shape. Consider using a high-quality pasta maker or cutter to craft homemade pasta that complements the creamy sauce. Explore our selection of artisanal pasta tools to enhance your culinary creations.
2. Mortar & pestle magic: Unlock the full flavour potential of your culinary creations by mastering the art of grinding and blending with a high-quality mortar and pestle. Whether you're crafting spice blends, grinding herbs or creating unique sauces, the key lies in the precision of your technique. Invest in a mortar and pestle set from our curated collection to elevate your kitchen experience.

Ditch the pre-grated cheese and opt for a high-quality cheese grater or shredder to elevate your culinary experience. Not only does freshly grated cheese provide a superior taste, but it also offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that enhances the overall richness of your Carbonara. When it comes to choosing a cheese grater, consider the following options for experimenting with different textures and achieving the freshest and most flavourful results:

• Microplane grater: Ideal for finely grating hard cheeses like parmesan or pecorino, a microplane grater creates delicate, fluffy strands that distribute evenly throughout your Carbonara, ensuring every bite is bursting with savoury goodness.
• Box grater: A versatile choice with multiple sides for coarse, fine and medium grating, the box grater is perfect for achieving a range of cheese textures. It's especially handy when working with semi-hard to hard cheeses, allowing you to customize the consistency to your liking.
• Rotary cheese grater: If you prefer a more hands-free approach, a rotary cheese grater is a convenient option. Simply load the cheese into the chamber, turn the handle, and watch as it effortlessly shreds your cheese to perfection.

Crafting a delightful Carbonara experience involves more than just the dish itself. To create a truly memorable dining experience, consider these additional elements that complement your Carbonara and elevate the overall enjoyment:

1. Wine pairing: Choose the right wine to enhance the flavours of your Carbonara. A crisp and light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta. Alternatively, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barbera can offer a robust complement to the savoury elements of the dish. Experiment with different wine pairings to discover the perfect match for your taste buds.
2. Glassware selection: Pay attention to the glassware you use to serve your chosen wine. Investing in elegant wine glasses enhances the visual appeal of your dining setting and contributes to the overall sensory experience. Consider the shape of the glass, as it can influence the aroma and taste perception of the wine. For example, use a tulip-shaped glass for white wine to preserve its crispness, or a larger bowl-shaped glass for red wine to allow its complex aromas to unfold.
3. Table setting: Elevate your dining setting by paying attention to the details. Use fine tableware, cloth napkins and ambient lighting to create a sophisticated atmosphere that complements the indulgence of Carbonara. Consider incorporating candles or subtle floral arrangements to add a touch of elegance to the table.