Pappardelle with Speck and Porcini Mushrooms Recipe
Category: First Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pappardelle (egg pasta) | 250g |
| Porcini mushrooms | 500g |
| Speck (smoked ham) | 150g |
| Fresh cream (liquid) | 50g |
| Parsley (fresh) | To taste |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 40g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Begin by cleaning the porcini mushrooms. If the mushrooms are relatively clean, a soft brush will suffice to remove any dirt. Use the brush gently to clean all sides of each mushroom cap. If necessary, wipe them with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking them in water as they can become soggy. Once cleaned, set the mushrooms aside to prepare the next ingredients.
Step 2: Slice the Speck
Next, take the speck and slice each piece lengthwise, cutting them into strips. The speck will add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish, so ensure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
Step 3: Sautรฉ the Garlic and Speck
In a large skillet, pour the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the garlic clove (crushed with the back of a knife) and allow it to release its aroma in the oil for about 1-2 minutes. Once the garlic is fragrant, remove it from the pan and discard. This will impart a subtle garlic flavor to the oil without overwhelming the dish. Now, add the sliced speck to the pan, letting it crisp up slightly as it renders out its fat. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Porcini Mushrooms
Add the cleaned porcini mushrooms to the skillet with the speck. Stir occasionally, allowing the mushrooms to soften and release their moisture, which should take about 5 minutes. At this point, the mushrooms will begin to shrink and turn golden brown.
Step 5: Cook the Pappardelle
While the mushrooms and speck are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes for fresh pasta. The pappardelle should remain al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the pan with the sauce.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Seasoning
Once the mushrooms have softened and slightly browned, lower the heat to a simmer. Add the fresh cream to the skillet and stir gently to incorporate it with the mushrooms and speck. Season with a pinch of black pepper, adjusting to your taste. The cream will thicken slightly, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pappardelle, reserving a little pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the mushroom and speck sauce. Toss the pappardelle in the sauce, ensuring each strand is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finely chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the pappardelle to add a burst of color and freshness. Toss again to combine. Plate the pasta and finish with a final grind of black pepper, adding a little extra for a touch of heat.
Serve the Pappardelle with Speck and Porcini Mushrooms while hot, enjoying the delightful combination of creamy mushrooms, smoky speck, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~600 kcal |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~50g |
| Fat | ~35g |
| Saturated Fat | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~700mg |
| Cholesterol | ~45mg |
Pro Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
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Choosing the Right Mushrooms: If fresh porcini mushrooms are not available, dried porcini can be a good substitute. Simply rehydrate them in warm water for about 20 minutes before using. Use the soaking liquid as a flavorful addition to the sauce.
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Pasta Cooking Tip: Always cook fresh pasta in a large pot of water to avoid overcrowding, ensuring the pappardelle remains tender and doesnโt stick together.
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Cream Substitution: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the fresh cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream, although the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
This Pappardelle with Speck and Porcini Mushrooms combines the earthiness of the porcini mushrooms with the smokiness of the speck, creating a decadent pasta dish that is both rich and comforting. Perfect for a special dinner or as a hearty weeknight meal, it brings together the best flavors of Italy in a single, satisfying bite.
