Chinese-style Pasta Carbonara

Ingredients

While the original Italian carbonara uses spaghetti and pancetta, this Chinese adaptation replaces them with egg noodles and savory pork. Additionally, the traditional carbonara sauce is enriched with Chinese flavors, creating a unique fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Pasta carbonara, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) Chinese egg noodles 250g (8.8 oz) Chinese egg noodles
• 200g (7 oz) pork belly, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) pork belly, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 50g (1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese 50g (1.8 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
• 50g (1.8 oz) grated Cheddar cheese 50g (1.8 oz) grated Cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish Chopped green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 28g (14g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the Chinese egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced pork belly and cook until crispy and golden brown. Remove the pork belly from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. 4.
   In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, Cheddar cheese, and heavy cream.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the garlic and toss to combine. Pour the egg mixture over the noodles and quickly stir to coat the noodles evenly.
6. 6.
   Return the crispy pork belly to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the Chinese-style Pasta Carbonara hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chinese egg noodles — Cook according to package instructions, as overcooking can result in mushy noodles.
• Pork belly — Thinly slice the pork belly for quick and even cooking.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor into the dish.
• Parmesan cheese — Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Cheddar cheese — Opt for a sharp Cheddar cheese to add depth to the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Customize the dish by adding vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken or vegetable broth.
• To make it more authentic, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or drizzle with sesame oil.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-style Pasta Carbonara as a main course, accompanied by a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or Chinese-style scallion pancakes.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, twirl the noodles onto individual plates and top with the crispy pork belly. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color.