Spaghetti Amatraciana
Serves 4 to 6
Next to Linguine with Clams (page 55), this is my favorite pasta dish. I will always order it if it is on the menu when I'm in an Italian restaurant, and like so many dishes. the preparation really varies. I've had it slightly creamy, with chopped hard-boiled egg on top and over many different types of pasta. You may substitute you favorite noodle too.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 ounces thick-cut pancetta or lightly smoked bacon, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 shallots, peeled and sliced crosswise (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes, with juices, lightly pulsed in food processor or blender
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Freshly grated Pecorino or Romano cheese, or can also use Parmesan
DIRECTIONS
- Bring a large pot of water to boil.
- Place 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and the pancetta in a large skillet over high heat and cook until the fat is completely rendered and the pancetta is crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Pour off the fat and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the shallots and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. Swirl in the remaining tablespoon of butter.
- Meanwhile, generously salt the boiling water. Add the spaghetti and cook until tender but still firm. Set the timer for 2 minutes less than the package instructions specify and taste for doneness. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to coat and serve topped with freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
pantry
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