Carbonara is a classic Italian pasta dish made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. It’s a simple yet hearty Itaklian cuisine that’s easy to prepare and is a staple in many households. But for those who are looking for a new take on the classic carbonara, you may want to try the Filipino version that puts a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
The Filipino Carbonara, also known as “Filipino-style Carbonara,” is a fusion dish that combines the traditional carbonara recipe with the flavors and ingredients commonly used in Filipino cuisine. This dish is a perfect example of how different cultures can come together to create something new and delicious.
This is not just a simple dish. While the traditional carbonara is a quick simple dish for the Italians, the Filipino Carbonara is a flavorful, elaborate, and rich creamy dish that’s perfect for special occasions. The Filipino Carbonara is more than just a fusion dish; it’s a dish with a rich history and cultural significance. It reflects the blending of different cultures and cuisines that have shaped Filipino cuisine. Nonetheless, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their cultural background. The combination of traditional carbonara and Filipino flavors creates a dish that’s both familiar and new at the same time.
In the Philippines, the carbonara recipe is given a twist by adding cream to the dish. Probably an offshoot of our American heritage where a lot of dishes is doused with cream. This addition of cream gives the dish a creamier texture and a more indulgent taste. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, then you’re sure to love this version of the carbonara.
I once attended a class by a French chef who waxed poetic about the authentic French carbonara, without cream. But I just can’t accept it. My mind is refusing to acknowledge the authentic carbonara as real carbonara. Lol. While it’s definitely a tasty dish, my tongue keep expecting the cream.
Habit is really a strange thing.
If you’re interested to learn about how to cook authentic carbonara, head here: French Kusina’s Authentic Carbonara.
Anyway, here is the Filipino Carbonara recipe as we Pinoy’s like it.
Pasta Filipino Carbonara Recipe
Ingredients:
- 300g spaghetti, cooked according to instructions
- 1 pack 200 gms chopped bacon
- 6 cloves chopped garlic
- 2 packs NESTLÉ All Purpose Cream 250 mL (I’ve been told that in the US, there’s no Nestle All Purpose Cream and a suitable replacement is heavy cream)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup water (or chicken cube broth)
- canned mushroom (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to instructions, rinse with water and set aside.
- Fry bacon in a pan until crisp. Cut up and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and cook until lightly browned. Saute mushroom (if using).
- Lower heat and pour in NESTLÉ All Purpose Cream, followed by cheeses. Add water and stir to combine. Let simmer. – DO NOT allow to boil over!
- Add most of the bacon to the sauce. Reserve some for toppings.
- Toss cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well-coated.
- Transfer to plate and top with remaining bacon. Sprinkle with some parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
The Filipino carbonara is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a hearty meal. The addition of cream gives it a creamy texture that’s sure to please your taste buds. So next time you’re looking to try something new, give the Filipino carbonara a try. You won’t be disappointed! While the authentic carbonara recipe may be different from what we’re used to, it’s important to remember that there’s no right or wrong way to make this dish. Each version of the carbonara has its own unique flavor and texture, so it’s up to you to decide which version you prefer. Whether you like it creamy or not, the carbonara is always a delicious dish to enjoy. So next time you’re looking to try something new, give the Filipino carbonara a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients
- 300g spaghetti, cooked according to instructions
- 1 pack 200 gms chopped bacon
- 6 cloves chopped garlic
- 2 packs NESTLÉ All Purpose Cream 250 mL
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup water (or chicken cube broth)
- canned mushroom (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to instructions, rinse with water and set aside.
- Fry bacon in a pan until crisp. Cut up and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and cook until lightly browned. Saute mushroom (if using).
- Lower heat and pour in NESTLÉ All Purpose Cream, followed by cheeses. Add water and stir to combine. Let simmer. - DO NOT allow to boil over!
- Add most of the bacon to the sauce. Reserve some for toppings.
- Toss cooked spaghetti into the sauce until well-coated.
- Transfer to plate and top with remaining bacon. Sprinkle with some parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
