Protein Carbonara

1. - Step 1Prepare the sauce by mixing the Super Eggs, 50g of the cheese and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl using either a small handheld whisk or a fork. Set aside.
2. - Step 2Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and add the pasta. Cook for around 13 minutes until al dente.
3. - Step 3Meanwhile put the guanciale into a large non-stick frying pan and cook over a moderate heat for around 5 minutes, stirring several times until beginning to brown. (There is no need to add oil to the pan as the meat cooks in its own fat).
4. - Step 4If using mushrooms, transfer the meat to a warm plate and add the sliced mushrooms to the frying pan. Let them cook for 2 minutes in the meat fat until softened. Turn off the heat and return the meat to the pan to keep warm.
5. - Step 5When the pasta has cooked, drain it, but reserve 2 tablespoons of the starchy cooking water. Add the pasta to the frying pan and mix briefly with the meat and mushrooms.
6. - Step 6Whisk the reserved cooking water into the sauce then pour the sauce over the pasta. Use tongues or a pair of wooden spoons to toss all ingredients together. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and a thick sauce will form.
7. - Step 7Divide the carbonara between 2 bowls then top with the remaining grated cheese and the chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Don’t forget to salt the cooking water for the pasta and ensure it is boiling before adding the pasta to the pan.
• If you prefer your guanciale crisper, just let it cook for a few more minutes in the frying pan.
• Mushrooms are not part of a classic carbonara recipe but they do boost the nutritional content of this dish. You can leave them out for a more authentic take on this dish if desired.
• Ensure the pan has been taken off the heat before adding the sauce. If the eggs get too hot they will scramble and the sauce will not be glossy & smooth.
• Carbonara is best eaten as soon as it has been made. Over time the pasta will soak up the sauce. If, however, you do need to reheat it, add a splash of water to the bowl and reheat in a microwave on low-medium power stirring well every 20 seconds until heated through.