Cuban-Style Pasta Carbonara

Ingredients

While the original Italian pasta carbonara is made with ingredients like pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, our Cuban adaptation incorporates Cuban-style ham, plantains, and a touch of cumin. These additions infuse the dish with the distinct flavors of Cuban cuisine, creating a unique and delicious fusion. We alse have the original recipe for Pasta carbonara, so you can check it out.

• 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti
• 4 slices Cuban-style ham, diced 4 slices Cuban-style ham, diced
• 1 ripe plantain, peeled and sliced 1 ripe plantain, peeled and sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Manchego cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Manchego cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 520 kcal / 2176 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 9g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced Cuban-style ham and cook until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the sliced plantains and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, grated Manchego cheese, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the crispy ham. Pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti and ham, stirring quickly to coat the pasta evenly. The residual heat will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.
6. 6.
   Return the skillet to low heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
8. 8.
   Serve the Cuban-style pasta carbonara hot, topped with the golden plantain slices.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cuban-style ham — Make sure to dice the ham into small pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.
• Plantains — Choose ripe plantains with yellow skin for a slightly sweet flavor. Slice them thinly to achieve a crispy texture when cooked.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
• If you can't find Cuban-style ham, you can substitute it with cooked bacon or prosciutto for a similar flavor profile.
• To make the dish more Cuban-inspired, serve it with a side of black beans and rice.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Cheddar, for a unique twist on the traditional Manchego flavor.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-style pasta carbonara as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty Cuban bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.