Pasta Alla Carbonara (From Pasta & Other Things)

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add the pancetta and stir fry until crisp. Take the pan off the heat and set aside.

3. 3

   Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the salt and the spaghetti, stirring often and cook until al dente.

4. 4

   Drain the spaghetti, reserving the 3/4 cup of pasta water, and return the spaghetti back to the pot. Do not rinse in cold water, you need the pasta hot to help cook the eggs. Set over very low heat. Immediately add the eggs, half of the cheese, the reserved pancetta, and any rendered fat, and toss well.

5. 5

   Add just enough of the reserved pasta water to make the mixture creamy.

6. 6

   Sprinkle generously with pepper and serve immediately.

7. 7

   Use the remaining cheese to pass at the table.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.