Spaghetti with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs
Category: Pasta
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 320g |
| Anchovies in oil | 30g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 20g |
| Breadcrumbs | 70g |
| Garlic cloves | 3 |
Instructions
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Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. There is no need to add salt to the water at this stage since the anchovies will provide ample saltiness to the dish.
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While the water is heating, heat 10g of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the whole garlic cloves (unpeeled) to the pan and sauté them gently in the oil until fragrant. Allow the garlic to infuse the oil for a few minutes, releasing its aroma.
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Once the garlic begins to soften, add the anchovies to the pan. Pour in a ladle of the hot water you’re boiling for the pasta. This will help dissolve the anchovies into the oil and garlic mixture. Stir frequently, allowing the anchovies to break down into a smooth sauce. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is evenly combined.
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In a separate pan, add the remaining 10g of olive oil and the breadcrumbs. Toast the breadcrumbs over medium heat, stirring occasionally until they become golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, and set them aside once they have reached a beautiful golden color.
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While the breadcrumbs are toasting, add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook the pasta for only 5 minutes to keep it al dente. The short cooking time is important because you will continue to cook the pasta in the anchovy sauce to finish the dish.
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After 5 minutes, remove the garlic cloves from the anchovy sauce and discard them. Now, carefully transfer the pasta directly into the pan with the anchovy sauce. Begin to “risotto” the pasta by adding a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time, stirring gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. Continue this process until the pasta is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
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Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and well-coated, remove the pan from the heat. Add a portion of the toasted breadcrumbs and stir well to combine. If needed, add a splash more pasta cooking water to achieve the desired texture.
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Plate the pasta, and generously sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch. Serve immediately, enjoying the delicious harmony of flavors from the anchovies, garlic, and crispy breadcrumbs.
This Italian classic is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish. With its savory anchovy sauce and satisfying crunch of toasted breadcrumbs, Spaghetti with Anchovies and Breadcrumbs is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy!
