Directions
Pasta and Potatoes with Provola and Bacon: A Classic Neapolitan Dish
The dish of pasta and potatoes stands out as one of the most iconic recipes in Neapolitan culinary tradition. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that has become a beloved comfort food for many Italian families over the years. Today, we celebrate this dish by preparing a deliciously rich version, enhanced with ingredients like bacon and premium smoked buffalo mozzarella. In this article, we’ll dive into not only the preparation of this dish but also its origins and tips to make it irresistible.
Origins and History of Pasta and Potatoes
The history of pasta and potatoes dates back centuries, originating from the humble kitchens of peasant families who used basic and readily available ingredients. This dish illustrates the culinary ingenuity of those who had to nourish themselves with what they had on hand. The pairing of pasta and potatoes is not only nutritious but is also expertly balanced to create a delightful mix of flavors and textures. When combined with bacon and provola cheese, the dish reaches an unparalleled level of richness and complexity.
Ingredients Needed for Preparation
To prepare our pasta and potatoes with provola and bacon, the following ingredients are necessary:
- 400 g of pasta (preferably tubetti or ditalini)
- 300 g of potatoes
- 150 g of bacon
- 100 g of smoked provola cheese
- 50 g of lard
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil
- Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano (optional)
Preparation of Pasta and Potatoes with Provola and Bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by cleaning the vegetables. Finely chop the celery, carrot, and onion. These components will create the soffritto that imparts exceptional flavor to our dish. Next, peel the potatoes and cut them into sticks, then dice them into approximately 1 cm cubes for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Soffritto
In a large pot, heat some extra virgin olive oil and add a sprig of basil to infuse flavor. Then, add diced lard and bacon, letting them brown for a few minutes until they develop a crispy, golden crust.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Remove the basil sprig and add the chopped vegetables. Season with salt and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes, then incorporate the tomato paste and let it meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
Once the ingredients are mixed, add the potatoes and cover everything with enough water to immerse the ingredients. Place a lid on the pot and simmer for around 10 minutes over low heat until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Pasta
At this point, add the pasta to the pot. Also, add a bit of hot water, but only enough to achieve a creamy consistency by the end of cooking. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta absorbs the flavors well. When the pasta is al dente, turn off the heat and fold in the fresh basil that was set aside earlier.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Now it’s time to enhance our dish: add the cubes of smoked provola, which will melt with the heat of the pasta, creating a creamy blend of flavors. If desired, sprinkle some cubes of Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano for an extra touch.
Serving the Dish
Serve the pasta and potatoes with provola and bacon piping hot, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper. This hearty and creamy dish is ideal for chilly winter evenings and is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Conclusion: A Dish of Tradition and Comfort
Pasta and potatoes with provola and bacon is more than just a simple first course; it’s a culinary experience that tells stories of tradition and togetherness. The preparation of this dish is a way to honor our culinary roots and to gather friends and family around the table. Its versatility allows for adjustments to suit various tastes without losing its essence.
We hope this culinary journey into Neapolitan tradition inspires you to bring a touch of Campania into your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!
