Miso Carbonara

This Miso Carbonara recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta, offering a unique fusion of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich umami notes and creamy texture, this dish elevates your dinner table while being simple to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special gathering, Miso Carbonara will impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Umami Explosion: The combination of miso paste and turkey bacon creates a savory depth that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile Dish: Miso Carbonara pairs well with various sides and can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the turkey bacon.
• Creamy Texture: The eggs and cheese create a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
• Comfort Food Redefined: This dish is not only delicious but also comforting, making it ideal for cozy nights in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of spaghetti, allowing it to reach the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Used for sautéing the turkey bacon, providing a base for combining flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for whisking eggs and cheese together to create the creamy sauce.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture of eggs and cheese without lumps.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Miso Carbonara, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces of spaghetti

For the Sauce

• 4 slices of thick turkey bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tbsp of miso paste
• 1 tsp of red chili flakes
• 1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup of hot reserved pasta water
• 2 eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 cup plus more for garnish parmigiano reggiano cheese
• Finely chopped green parsley for garnish

How to Make Miso Carbonara

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, add the turkey bacon pieces. Sauté until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, parmigiano reggiano cheese, miso paste, red chili flakes, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the hot reserved pasta water to the egg mixture gradually while whisking continuously. This helps temper the eggs and creates a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Mix Pasta with Sauce

Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with turkey bacon. Pour in the sauce mixture and quickly toss using tongs until everything is evenly coated. If needed, adjust consistency with more pasta water.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your Miso Carbonara immediately garnished with additional cheese and finely chopped green parsley. Enjoy this delicious fusion dish!

How to Serve Miso Carbonara

Miso Carbonara is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the creaminess of carbonara with the rich umami flavor of miso. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add freshness.
• Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar complements the warmth of the pasta.

Add Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft and fluffy focaccia adds a savory touch that pairs well with the dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Green Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and brightness to your plate.
• Chili Flakes: A sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the heat and flavor.

How to Perfect Miso Carbonara

To elevate your Miso Carbonara, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Select fresh spaghetti and quality cheese for a richer taste.
• Adjust Pasta Water: Add hot reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the desired creaminess.
• Mix Quickly: Combine the egg mixture with pasta off heat to prevent scrambling.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning based on personal preference; you may want more pepper or miso.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after preparing for the best texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Miso Carbonara

Miso Carbonara pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky note.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic can complement the richness of the carbonara.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing balance to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a nutty addition that pairs well.
6. Miso Soup: For an authentic touch, serve miso soup as a warm starter or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake is using too much miso paste. It can overpower the dish. Start with one tablespoon and adjust based on taste.
• Another error is not reserving enough pasta water. This water helps create a creamy sauce. Always reserve at least half a cup before draining the pasta.
• Many people overcook the spaghetti. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta, as it will cook further in the sauce.
• A frequent issue is skipping the egg tempering step. Adding eggs directly to hot pasta can scramble them. Mix them with reserved pasta water first.
• Some forget to add seasoning at each stage. This means flavors may become unbalanced. Season the turkey bacon and pasta separately for depth in flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Miso Carbonara in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Miso Carbonara

• Miso Carbonara can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Miso Carbonara

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce as it warms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Miso Carbonara?
Miso Carbonara is a fusion pasta dish that combines traditional carbonara elements with umami-rich miso paste for a unique flavor profile.

Can I customize my Miso Carbonara?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute turkey bacon with chicken or beef for different tastes.

How do I ensure my eggs don’t scramble?
To prevent scrambling, temper your eggs by mixing them with reserved hot pasta water before adding them to the dish.

Is Miso Carbonara suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Miso Carbonara stores well and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

How spicy is Miso Carbonara?
The spiciness mainly comes from red chili flakes. You can adjust this amount based on your personal preference for heat.

Final Thoughts

Miso Carbonara is a delightful twist on traditional pasta that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences, whether you want more spice or added vegetables. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious fusion experience!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Miso Carbonara

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Miso Carbonara is a delightful fusion dish that infuses traditional Italian pasta with the rich umami flavors of miso. This unique recipe combines creamy textures with savory turkey bacon, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation time and versatile nature, Miso Carbonara is ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Impress your family and friends with this innovative take on carbonara that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 4 slices thick turkey bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup hot reserved pasta water
• 2 eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 cup parmigiano reggiano cheese (plus more for garnish)
• Finely chopped green parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté turkey bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, cheese, miso paste, red chili flakes, and black pepper.
4. Gradually add hot pasta water to the egg mixture while whisking to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and turkey bacon in the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Toss with tongs until well coated.
6. Serve immediately garnished with additional cheese and parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-Japanese Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 840mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 180mg