Microwave Carbonara Recipe

This recipe is a quick and easy way to make a delicious carbonara using only a microwave. Perfect when you're short on time and need a fast but tasty meal. SSP prepared.

The recipe was tested using microwaves of 800W.

Ingredients:

• 65g of smoked pancetta cubes or bacon/guanciale, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
• 75g of spaghetti or linguine, broken in half
• 1 tbsp of grated Parmesan
• 1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk

• black pepper, to taste
• pinch salt or ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups (350ml) water
• additional grated Parmesan for garnishing (optional)

Method:

1. Place pancetta or bacon in a microwavable bowl or dish. Microwave for 2 minutes if using pancetta or 5-6 minutes if using bacon, until the fat is rendered and the meat begins to brown and crisp. Set aside, keeping the released fat.

2. In a microwaveable container, combine the snapped spaghetti and salt. Pour over 1½ cups (350ml) of boiling water or enough to cover the pasta. Microwave uncovered for the cooking time suggested on the packet plus an additional 4 minutes. Stir every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking and add more boiling water if needed.

3.  In a separate bowl, combine the egg, egg yolk, grated Parmesan, and black pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.

4.  Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 2-4 tablespoons of the pasta water and drain the rest. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water into the egg mixture. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon, along with the rendered fat, to the pasta. Immediately pour in the egg mixture and stir vigorously until the pasta is well coated, and the sauce achieves a silky texture. Microwave the combined mixture for 30 seconds to heat through, taking care not to overcook the eggs. Let it stand in the microwave for 1 minute. Garnish with more Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Read also on SSP: Quick and Decadent Microwave Chocolate Mug Cake.