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 Ingredients:

• 400g Spaghetti

• 150g Pancetta or Guanciale (Italian cured pork)

• 2 Large eggs

• 100g Pecorino Romano cheese (freshly grated)

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Salt (for the pasta water)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt (about 1 tablespoon for every liter of water), then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

2. Cook the Pancetta/Guanciale: While the pasta cooks, cut the pancetta or guanciale into small cubes. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the pancetta until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The fat will render, creating a delicious, flavorful base for your Carbonara sauce. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and half of the grated Pecorino Romano. Add a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to the mix. The sauce will be rich and creamy without any actual cream – that’s the magic of Carbonara!

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is done, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the spaghetti. Immediately add the hot pasta to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss everything together, allowing the heat of the pasta to slightly cool. Gradually pour in the egg and cheese mixture, tossing constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. The residual heat from the pasta will cook the sauce, creating a silky, creamy texture.

5. Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, slowly add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Continue tossing until everything is well coated.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta and sprinkle the remaining Pecorino Romano on top, along with more freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the taste of Italy right at home!

Pro Tip: For the best results, use high-quality ingredients. Guanciale is more traditional, but pancetta is a great substitute if you can’t find it. Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese is essential for that authentic taste!