There’s nothing quite like settling in for a night at home with a good bottle of wine and some delicious food. Looking for the perfect carbonara wine pairing? This classic Italian dish pairs perfectly with a wide variety of wines, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. In this article, we’ll discuss the best wine pairings for carbonara and some tips on how to make the ideal carbonara dish.
What Is Italian Carbonara?
Carbonara is a classic Italian dish made with pasta, bacon, eggs, and cheese. The dish’s name comes from the Italian word “carbonara,” which means “charcoal burner.” This is likely because carbonara was once a peasant dish made with readily available ingredients.
The traditional carbonara recipe calls for spaghetti, bacon, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. However, there are many variations of the dish, which can include ingredients such as mushrooms, peas, or ham.
How About American Carbonara?
American carbonara is a pasta dish typically made with bacon, eggs, and cheese. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1970s, and it has since become a popular menu item in restaurants across the country.
While there are many different recipes for American carbonara, the classic version typically includes spaghetti or penne pasta cooked in a pan with bacon until crisp. The bacon is then removed from the pan, and the eggs are added, along with Parmesan cheese and black pepper. The egg and cheese mixture is then stirred into the pasta until fully coated. American carbonara can also be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood instead of bacon. Regardless of the ingredients, it will be a delicious and satisfying meal.
Are There Other Types Of Carbonara?
Yes, there are a few other types of carbonara that you may encounter. For example, a French version of the dish calls for crème fraîche in place of eggs. There is also an Austrian version that uses quark in place of eggs and cheese. And finally, there is an Italian-American version that includes both eggs and cheese in the recipe.
What Wine Goes Well With Italian Carbonara?
When it comes to pairing wine with food, there are no hard and fast rules. However, certain wines can enhance the flavors of specific dishes. For example, many people believe that dry white wine is the best choice for Italian carbonara. The acidity of the wine helps to balance out the dish’s richness, and the minerality can highlight the flavor of the pancetta.
In addition, a light-bodied white wine will not overpower the delicate flavors of the carbonara. If you’re looking for a specific wine to pair with your carbonara, consider a Pinot Grigio or a Vermentino. These Italian varietals are well-suited to this dish, and they’re widely available at most retail stores.
How About Red Wine?
Some people prefer to drink red wine with their carbonara, and that’s perfectly okay! A fruity Merlot or a Zinfandel would be an excellent choice for this dish.
However, it’s important to remember that red wine is a heavier beverage, so you may want to drink a smaller portion than you would with white wine. Also, choose a bolder red wine rather than a light-bodied variety, as the flavors will stand up better to the strong flavors in the carbonara.
A Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel or an Italian Barbera are both excellent choices. The acidity in these wines will cut through the richness of the carbonara, while the fruit flavors will pair nicely with the pancetta or bacon. If you’re using a creamier cheese like Pecorino Romano, you might want to try a Chianti Classico Riserva. The tannins in this wine will help balance out the cheese’s creaminess, and the flavors will complement the herbs in the carbonara.
Are There Other Wines I Can Serve?
Yes, there are many other types of wine that you can serve with carbonara. If you’re looking for a sparkling wine option, a dry Prosecco would be great. A light-bodied Pinot Noir would be perfect for those who prefer red wine. And finally, if you’re looking for something different, you could try a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer. These wines are both high in acidity, and they will help cleanse your palate between bites.
No matter what wine you choose, be sure to serve it at the proper temperature. Room temperature wine can taste dull and flavorless, so it’s best to chill it in the fridge for about an hour before serving.
When it comes to carbonara, there are no hard and fast rules. This dish can be made with various ingredients, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. And when it comes to wine pairing, trust your taste buds. If you like a particular wine with carbonara, go for it!
However, we’ve got you covered if you’re looking for some suggestions. Here are a few of our favorite wine pairings for Italian carbonara:
- Dry white wine (Pinot Grigio, Vermentino)
- Light-bodied red wine (Merlot, Zinfandel)
- Sparkling wine (Prosecco)
- Riesling
- Gewürztraminer
What Else Can You Serve With Carbonara?
Carbonara is a very hearty dish, so it’s perfect for serving as the main course. When it comes to carbonara, the options are limitless. This classic Italian dish can be easily dressed up or down to suit any occasion. However, if you’re looking for something to serve alongside it, here are a few suggestions:
Simple Salad
Try pairing it with a simple salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes for a casual weeknight meal. For a more formal evening, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a side of grilled shrimp.
Roasted Vegetables
If you want to add more variety to your meal, consider pairing it with some roasted asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. These side dishes are healthy and flavorful, and they’ll complement the carbonara perfectly.
Grilled Protein
If you’re looking for something more substantial, try serving your carbonara with some grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. This will turn it into a complete meal perfect for any occasion.
A Side Of Garlic Bread
No Italian meal is complete without some delicious garlic bread. So why not serve it alongside your carbonara? This will add a bit of carb and extra flavor to your meal. A side of garlic bread is also a great option, and it can help mop up any stray sauce.
As you can see, there are many different ways to enjoy carbonara. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something more elaborate for a special occasion, this dish is sure to please. And when it comes to wine pairing, the options are endless. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Cheers!
