Marcella Hazan's Spaghetti With Smothered Onions
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, you've likely heard of Marcella Hazan. The late chef and cookbook author was known for her authentic and delicious recipes, including her famous Spaghetti With Smothered Onions. This classic dish is a must-try for any pasta lover, and it's surprisingly easy to make at home.
The History of Spaghetti With Smothered Onions
The origins of this dish are somewhat murky, but it's believed to have originated in the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Smothered onions were a common ingredient in the area, and the dish likely evolved as a way to use them up. Marcella Hazan popularized the recipe in the United States with the publication of her cookbook, "The Classic Italian Cook Book," in 1973.
The Ingredients You'll Need
To make Marcella Hazan's Spaghetti With Smothered Onions, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 large onions, sliced thinly
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
That's it! This dish may be simple, but it's packed with flavor.
The Recipe
Ready to get cooking? Here's the recipe for Marcella Hazan's Spaghetti With Smothered Onions:
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are very soft and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Once the onions are done, add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the onions and toss well to combine. Add the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and toss again.
- Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and serve hot with extra Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top.
That's all there is to it! This dish may be simple, but it's sure to impress.
Tips for Success
If you want to make sure your Spaghetti With Smothered Onions turns out perfectly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Be patient when cooking the onions. They should be very soft and caramelized before you add the pasta water.
- Don't skip the pasta water! It helps to create a silky sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly.
- Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for the best flavor.
- Season the dish to taste with salt and black pepper. Don't be afraid to add more cheese, either!
Conclusion
Marcella Hazan's Spaghetti With Smothered Onions is a classic Italian dish that's sure to become a favorite in your household. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try?
