Iraqi-style Spaghetti with Lamb Bacon

Ingredients

In this Iraqi adaptation of spaghetti al guanciale, lamb bacon is used instead of the traditional Italian guanciale. The sauce is enriched with aromatic herbs commonly used in Iraqi cuisine, such as mint, parsley, and cilantro. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat, which is not typically found in the original Italian dish. We alse have the original recipe for Spaghetti al guanciale, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8oz) spaghetti noodles 250g (8.8oz) spaghetti noodles
• 200g (7oz) lamb bacon, thinly sliced 200g (7oz) lamb bacon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the spaghetti noodles 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 lamb bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until golden brown and fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the red pepper flakes and sauté for an additional minute.
5. 5.
   Return the cooked lamb bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and onion mixture.
6. 6.
   Add the chopped mint, parsley, and cilantro to the skillet. Stir well to incorporate the herbs into the sauce.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet and toss until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb bacon — Make sure to slice the lamb bacon thinly for a crispy texture. If lamb bacon is not available, you can substitute it with beef bacon or turkey bacon for a similar flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the finished dish.
• If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your taste.
• Serve the spaghetti with a side of fresh Iraqi bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Iraqi-style spaghetti with lamb bacon hot, garnished with fresh herbs. Accompany it with a side of Iraqi bread and a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional chopped fresh herbs on top of the dish. Serve it in individual pasta bowls or on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the herbs and the golden brown lamb bacon to shine through.