Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Farfalle Carbonara with Peas and Mint?
It is a modern twist on the classic Italian carbonara featuring bowtie pasta, crispy pancetta, and fresh peas in a creamy mint-infused sauce.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
Farfalle pasta, also known as bowtie pasta, is the primary pasta used for this dish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients?
The main ingredients include farfalle pasta, egg, double cream, sea salt, black pepper, pancetta or bacon, peas, fresh mint, and Parmesan cheese.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
Who inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the cooking style and recipes of Jamie Oliver.
Can I use frozen peas for this carbonara?
Yes, you can use either fresh peas or frozen peas for this recipe.
When should I add the peas to the pot?
Add the peas to the boiling pasta water when the farfalle has approximately 1.5 minutes of cooking time remaining.
How long should I cook the pancetta?
The pancetta or bacon should be cooked over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it is crispy and golden.
How is the creamy sauce prepared?
The sauce is made by whisking together an egg and double cream, then tossing the mixture with hot pasta off the heat.
How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the sauce?
Quickly toss the pasta with the egg and cream mixture using only the residual heat from the pasta to cook the eggs gently.
Why should I reserve some of the pasta cooking water?
Reserving the cooking water allows you to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick upon mixing.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this dish?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended to be sprinkled generously over the finished dish.
What is the preparation for the mint?
The mint leaves should be picked from the stems and used as a garnish to finish the dish.
How much double cream is needed?
The recipe requires 100ml of double cream for the sauce.
Can I use bacon instead of pancetta?
Yes, smoked streaky bacon is an excellent substitute for pancetta in this recipe.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 22.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 15 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
One serving contains 42.5 grams of carbohydrates.
What kind of pepper should I use?
Freshly ground black pepper is suggested for the best flavor profile.
To what consistency should the pasta be cooked?
The farfalle pasta should be cooked until it is al dente, according to the package instructions.
When is the best time to serve this dish?
It should be served immediately while it is still warm and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch?
Yes, its ease of preparation makes it perfect for a quick lunch or even a snack.
How many eggs are required for 4 servings?
This recipe uses 1 beaten egg combined with the cream for the sauce base.
What type of salt is recommended?
Sea salt is recommended for seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish.
How do I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
What does the mint add to the recipe?
The mint provides a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the cream and pancetta.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
How should the pancetta be sliced?
The recipe suggests that the pancetta or bacon be roughly sliced before cooking.
Is this a difficult recipe for home cooks?
No, it is described as an easy recipe that is incredibly simple to prepare for any home cook.