In the Kitchen
Poached Egg Carbnnara
This pasta recipe puts a fun twist on traditional carbonara. Instead of tossing the pasta with egg during preparation, it’s lightly coated in a sauce made of Parmesan and cream. It’s served with a poached egg on top so that each person can mix in the creamy yolk as they enjoy the meal. Peas are added to brighten the dish, but chopped asparagus makes another delicious addition. If you can’t find pancetta, simply use finely chopped bacon. Whole-wheat spaghetti is used here, but white pasta or gluten-free pasta can be substituted. YIELD: 4 to 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
• 1 pound whole wheat spaghetti • 6 ounces pancetta, chopped • 1⁄4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped • 1⁄2 cup heavy cream • 1⁄2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus extra for garnish • 1⁄2 cup fresh or frozen peas • salt and ground black pepper to taste • 4 to 6 large eggs, poached, depending on choice of serving size
PREPARATION
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve one cup of the cooking water, and set the pasta and the water aside. Cook the pancetta in a large pot over mediumhigh heat for about 3 minutes, until it begins to firm up. Add the onion, and cook for 2 more minutes, until the onion begins to soften and the pancetta darkens in color. Reduce the heat to medium, and add the pasta with the pasta water. Toss well, and reduce the heat again to medium-low. Add the cream and Parmesan. Toss well. Add the peas, and toss for about 2 more minutes until all ingredients are heated through. Add salt and pepper to taste. To serve, add an equal amount of pasta to 4 or 6 serving plates. Top each with a poached egg. Garnish with grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper.