National Carbonara Day
Rich pasta, melding salty pancetta, creamy egg, and Parmesan—a flavor dance that captivates discerning palates effortlessly.
A silky cheese sauce with crisp pancetta served over a piping hot plate of spaghetti? Yes, please! Because it’s time to celebrate National Carbonara Day!
How to Celebrate National Carbonara Day
Show some love for this tasty meal that can make almost anyone smile and observe National Carbonara Day with some plans like these:
Order a Plate of Carbonara
The ideal thing that almost anyone can do on National Carbonara Day is to head out to a favorite Italian restaurant and order up a plate of carbonara pasta.
The sauce is typically made with just a few ingredients, the featured flavors being bacon and parmesan cheese in the creamy egg sauce. Don’t forget to enjoy a glass of authentic Italian wine, a side salad, some garlic bread or breadsticks and a plate of tiramisu for dessert!
Try Making Carbonara at Home
While it might be easier to buy a jarred sauce and open it up, on the special occasion of National Carbonara Day, it might be fun for cooking fans to try their hand at making this sauce.
The ingredient list is relatively simple, including bacon or pancetta, fresh parmesan cheese, egg yolks, olive oil and some salt and pepper.
One trick of this dish is to make sure the eggs are carefully whisked. Some people also like to use the pasta water to thin the sauce before serving it over spaghetti or some other long pasta. Delicious!
Plan a Trip to Italy
Those extreme foodies who are wholeheartedly dedicated to pasta, Italy or food days in general might want to make a big deal out of this year’s National Carbonara Day by planning a trip to Italy.
Perhaps head to La Carbonara restaurant in Rome to begin a trip where carbonara is sampled in various restaurants in cities all throughout the nation!
National Carbonara Day FAQs
What are some lesser-known theories about the origin of carbonara?
Beyond the common belief that carbonara originated with Italian charcoal workers, some suggest it was created by American soldiers in Italy during World War II.
They combined their rations of bacon and eggs with local pasta, leading to the dish we know today.
How do different countries put their own spin on carbonara?
While traditional Italian carbonara uses eggs, cheese, and guanciale, variations exist worldwide.
In Japan, for example, chefs often add cream and sometimes substitute bacon with local ingredients like mushrooms or seaweed, creating a fusion of flavors.
What was “Carbonaragate,” and why did it cause an uproar?
“Carbonaragate” refers to a controversy sparked by a French attempt to reinvent carbonara as a quick “one-pot” meal.
This version omitted beaten eggs and placed a whole yolk atop seasoned fusilli, leading to international debate and outrage among Italian food enthusiasts.
Is it true that traditional carbonara never includes cream?
Yes, traditional Italian carbonara relies solely on eggs and cheese for its creamy texture.
The addition of cream is a modern adaptation found in some non-Italian versions, but purists consider it unauthentic.
How did the Italian city of Rome address rising carbonara prices?
In response to escalating costs, Rome introduced a “carbonara pact” to impose voluntary price limits on popular dishes like spaghetti alla carbonara.
Restaurants adhering to these limits received a special sticker, aiming to prevent inflated bills and improve the city’s image.
What role did the Italian Cuisine Authority play in carbonara’s history?
In 2004, the Italian Cuisine Authority officially listed the recipe for carbonara as it is known today.
This recognition solidified carbonara’s place as a traditional Italian dish, further spreading its fame throughout Italy and the world.
How did Heinz’s canned carbonara stir controversy in Italy?
Heinz introduced a canned version of spaghetti carbonara aimed at Gen Z, promoting it as a quick and easy meal.
However, Italian culinary experts criticized this rendition, claiming it undermines the authenticity of Italian cuisine.
What are some common misconceptions about carbonara’s ingredients?
A widespread misconception is the interchangeability of bacon and guanciale in carbonara. While bacon can be a substitute, purists argue that guanciale’s distinct taste is essential for an authentic carbonara.
How has carbonara been portrayed in popular media?
Carbonara has appeared in films like “Eat Pray Love” and TV shows like “MasterChef,” often depicted as a symbol of Italian culture and gastronomy.
Its inclusion in popular media has further solidified its reputation as an iconic Italian dish.
What are some creative variations of carbonara celebrated on National Carbonara Day?
On National Carbonara Day, enthusiasts share their favorite recipes, including innovative twists like adding mushrooms, peas, or even seafood.
These variations showcase the dish’s versatility while honoring its traditional roots.
History of National Carbonara Day
Although it might seem like carbonara is a dish that has been around in Italy for centuries, that is not quite the case.
In fact, carbonara is a relatively modern dish that was created by Americans living in Italy after World War II. It might be interesting to note that a similar dish, pasta cacio e uova, has been around much longer and some even say it was the pre-war name for carbonara.
One of the main origin stories of the dish is that it was made by charcoal workers from the Apennine mountain region, which makes sense because the term may be derived from “carbonaro” which is an Italian charcoal burner.
In the US, this background may have even led to the silly slang term, “coal miner’s spaghetti”.
Another story goes that this dish is a modernized dish made in Rome, possibly made popular at a restaurant by the name of La Carbonara.
But no matter how it came about, this deliciously decadent pasta dish is deserving of a day of celebration!
The inaugural celebration of National Carbonara Day took place in 2017 when it was established by the Italian Association of Confectionery and Pasta Industries (AIDEPI) and the International Pasta Organization (IPO).
The idea behind the day was simply to pay homage to this amazing dish and its delightful home country.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Pajama Day
Embracing comfort all day, an effortless shift from formal wear to cozy pajamas adds a delightful twist to routines.
New Beer’s Eve
Crack open a cold one with friends or family, and toast to the end of Prohibition and the return of yeasty, hoppy, refreshing and delicious beer on New Beer’s Day.
National Caramel Popcorn Day
Sweet and salty, crunchy and soft: opposites attract on National Caramel Popcorn Day, so forget your diet and enjoy one of the nation’s tastiest snacks.
Army Day
Thank a veteran, donate to the cause, or volunteer to help the nation’s frontline, who often suffer PTSD, poverty, and loss for their sacrifices to their country.
We think you may also like...
National Noodle Day
Spaghetti, ramen, ziti, egg noodles…most of the best foods are noodles. Try a new kind today, or go out and treat yourself to one of the world’s favorite dishes.
National Pierogi Day
A tasty flour-and-egg dumpling filled with your choice of meat, potatoes, cheese, onions, all that good stuff…it’s no wonder the whole world loves pierogis.
National Pasta Day
No matter where it started or how it became so popular, pasta is a simple and versatile dish that is absolutely worth celebrating.
National Fettuccine Alfredo Day
A rich and creamy dish made from fresh fettuccine noodles, butter, cream, and parmesan cheese — comfort food at its best!
