If you’re eager to dive into the heart of Italian cooking, Cacio e Pepe is the perfect dish to start with. Meaning “cheese and pepper” in Italian, this classic Roman pasta embodies the beauty of simplicity. Let me teach you how to create this timeless recipe, ensuring each bite is a delightful blend of creamy cheese and spicy pepper.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti (or traditional tonnarelli pasta)
- 100g Pecorino Romano cheese, finely grated
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, for the pasta water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta Water
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt—remember, Pecorino Romano is quite salty, so you won’t need much.
2. Cook the Pasta
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until it’s just al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Toast the Pepper
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper and toast it for about 1-2 minutes. This will enhance its aroma and flavor.
4. Create the Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Pecorino Romano with a ladleful of the hot pasta water. Stir vigorously until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from clumping later.
5. Combine Everything
- Transfer the Pasta: Use tongs to move the cooked pasta from the pot to the skillet with the toasted pepper. Reserve the pasta water.
- Add Pasta Water: Pour a small amount of the reserved pasta water into the skillet. Toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the pepper and water.
- Incorporate the Cheese Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat. Gradually add the cheese paste to the pasta, tossing continuously. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a silky sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add more pasta water a little at a time.
6. Serve Immediately
Plate the Cacio e Pepe right away to enjoy it at its peak creaminess. You can garnish with extra grated Pecorino Romano and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and freshly ground pepper make a significant difference in flavor.
- Mind the Heat: Removing the skillet from the heat before adding the cheese prevents the sauce from becoming grainy.
- Adjust Consistency: The starchy pasta water is your friend. It helps emulsify the sauce, so use it to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
By mastering Cacio e Pepe, you’ve tapped into the soul of Italian cooking—a cuisine that celebrates quality ingredients and straightforward techniques. This dish is proof that simplicity can lead to extraordinary flavors. Enjoy your homemade Italian masterpiece!