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A beautiful plate of Creamy Saffron Pasta.
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Creamy Saffron Pasta

Creamy Saffron Pasta is a luxurious dish that combines the richness of saffron,  velvety texture of Pecorino, and  delightful crunch of crispy guanciale. Each bite is a perfect balance of smooth, and crunchy texture mixed with the perfect salty, flavor.

Equipment

  • Glass
  • Spoon
  • knife
  • Chopping-board
  • Large pan
  • Colander/Sieve
  • bowl
  • Garlic presser
  • large pot
  • wooden spoon
  • Mug
  • Tongs

Ingredients

  • 1 Tsp Saffron
  • 300 g /10.5oz Spaghettoni
  • 150 g /5.3oz Guanciale no skin
  • 2 cloves of garlic crushed
  • 50 g /1.7oz Pecorino
  • 50 g /1.7oz butter
  • Pepper

Instructions

  • Boil some water and pour half a standard-size glass. Add the saffron, mix it using a spoon and set aside.
  • Prepare the guanciale by cutting off the skin and pepper, keeping the fat intact, and slicing it into strips.
  • Place these strips in a saucepan over medium-low heat, no need for extra oil. Let the guanciale cook slowly in its own fat.
  • Once the guanciale is crispy and surrounded by its rendered fat, carefully strain it through a sieve, into a bowl to capture the guanciale oil. Set it aside.
  • Meanwhile, bring 5 litres of water to boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of sea salt and allow to dissolve. Gently add the pasta, pushing it down slightly to prevent sticking. Cook your pasta for 2 minutes less than the packet instructions.
  • Two minutes before the pasta is ready, get the pan used to cook the guanciale, heat it over low heat, add the butter and crushed garlic.
  • Once the pasta is al dente, it’s ready. Scoop up a mug full of pasta water and put aside.
  • Once the garlic turns golden, transfer the spaghetti into the pan. Use tongs to mix, adding reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
  • Add the guanciale oil, but avoid pouring in the residue as it has a bitter taste. Mix well.
  • Pour in the saffron mixture and stir until it becomes creamy.
  • Don't worry if you have too much liquid in your pan; you need it to combine with the cheese. Turn off the heat.
  • Sprinkle the Pecorino cheese and half of the guanciale, reserving the other half for garnish. Stir well.
  • If it’s too dry, add a bit more pasta water and toss to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

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