Savory Ham Carbonara with Pancetta Spices
Elevate your pasta night with this Savory Ham Carbonara infused with the aromatic spices typically used in Pancetta. The combination of succulent cubed ham, sautéed onions, and a creamy egg mixture delivers a flavor-packed experience. A hint of nutmeg and crushed fennel adds a delightful zing, ensuring each bite is a satisfying treat. This dish transforms traditional carbonara into a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to impress your guests. Just remember, due to its rich ingredients, it’s best enjoyed on special occasions—perhaps pairing it with a light salad and leaving off dessert. Indulge responsibly and savor every mouthful!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
ham
2 cups (cubed)
onion
1 medium (chopped)
linguine
1 lb (uncooked)
olive oil
4 tablespoons (divided)
nutmeg
1 teaspoon (ground)
red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon (crushed)
fennel
1 teaspoon (crushed)
garlic
2 teaspoons (minced)
half-and-half
1 pint (liquid)
parmesan cheese
1 cup (grated)
eggs
2 (beaten)
fresh parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Set aside.
3
In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and translucent. Once cooked, transfer the onions to a large serving bowl and cover to keep warm.
4
In the same frying pan, add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil and then the cubed ham. Toss the ham and cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned. Add the nutmeg, red pepper flakes, crushed fennel, and minced garlic to the pan, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the spices' flavors.
5
Return the sautéed onions to the pan with the ham and mix well. Lower the heat to low and slowly pour in the egg, half-and-half, and cheese mixture, stirring continuously until heated through. Be cautious not to scramble the eggs; aim for a creamy consistency.
6
Transfer the carbonara mixture to the large bowl with the onions, toss to combine, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Pair with a crunchy salad and crispy bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Ham Carbonara with Pancetta Spices?
It is an elevated pasta dish featuring cubed ham, sautéed onions, and a creamy egg-based sauce seasoned with spices typically used in pancetta like nutmeg and fennel.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of uncooked linguine, which holds the creamy sauce well.
How do I prepare the ham for this dish?
You should use 2 cups of ham and prepare it by cutting it into cubes before browning it in the pan.
What unique spices are used to mimic pancetta flavors?
The dish uses a combination of ground nutmeg, crushed red pepper flakes, and crushed fennel to achieve its signature savory profile.
How many eggs are needed for the carbonara sauce?
The recipe requires 2 beaten eggs to create the base of the creamy carbonara mixture.
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
The recipe calls for 1 pint of half-and-half, but you can substitute heavy cream for an even richer result.
What is the secret to a creamy carbonara sauce without scrambling the eggs?
The key is to lower the heat to low and pour the egg mixture in slowly while stirring continuously until just heated through.
How much garlic does this recipe require?
You will need 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, added toward the end of browning the ham.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions in olive oil for approximately 5-7 minutes until they are golden and translucent.
What kind of cheese should be used?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which is whisked into the egg and half-and-half mixture.
Is this carbonara spicy?
It has a slight kick thanks to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
How much olive oil is used in total?
A total of 4 tablespoons of olive oil is used, divided between sautéing the onions and browning the ham.
What should I serve with this meal?
It is recommended to pair the dish with a light, crunchy salad and crispy bread to balance the richness.
How do I prepare the fennel for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of fennel that has been crushed to release its aromatic oils.
Can I use dried parsley?
While 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley is recommended for the best flavor and garnish, dried parsley can be used in a smaller quantity if necessary.
Is the pasta cooked until soft?
No, the linguine should be cooked according to package instructions until it is al dente.
When should I add the spices to the pan?
Add the nutmeg, red pepper flakes, fennel, and garlic to the pan after the ham has browned, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While the specific serving count isn't listed, the use of 1 lb of pasta typically serves 4 to 6 people.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features a rich and creamy sauce coating the pasta with textures from the succulent cubed ham and soft sautéed onions.
Do I cook the onions and ham together initially?
No, you sauté the onions first, remove them to a warm bowl, and then brown the ham separately before recombining them.
Is it okay to eat this every day?
The description suggests enjoying it on special occasions due to its rich ingredients and indulgent nature.
What preparation is needed for the onion?
One medium onion should be chopped before being sautéed in the frying pan.
How long does it take to brown the ham?
The cubed ham should be tossed and cooked for about 5-6 minutes until it reaches a browned consistency.
Can I omit the nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a key part of the 'pancetta spice' profile, but it can be omitted if you prefer a more traditional ham flavor.
Should I salt the pasta water?
Yes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to ensure the linguine is properly seasoned.
What is the role of red pepper flakes in this dish?
They provide a delightful zing and balance the creaminess of the egg and half-and-half sauce.
How do I combine the pasta and sauce?
The instructions recommend transferring the finished carbonara mixture to a large bowl with the onions and pasta, then tossing to combine.
Can I substitute the ham?
While the recipe is built around ham, you could substitute it with actual pancetta or bacon for a similar flavor profile.
Is this dish considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, it is a variation of the classic Italian carbonara, adapted with ham and specific aromatic spices.
What is the best way to garnish this dish?
The recipe suggests sprinkling 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley over the top just before serving.