Gennaro Contaldo's Favorite Spaghetti with Garlic and Chilli: A Culinary Journey

In the realm of Italian cuisine, few dishes are as iconic and beloved as spaghetti with garlic and chilli. This simple yet irresistible pasta dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of countless food enthusiasts around the world. And who better to discuss this culinary classic than renowned Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo?

In a recent episode of the BBC Good Food Podcast, Contaldo shared his insights and passion for this timeless dish. With his infectious enthusiasm and wealth of culinary experience, he guided listeners through the essential elements that make spaghetti with garlic and chilli so special.

The Ingredients:

Contaldo emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients to create an exceptional dish. For this recipe, he recommends:

* Spaghetti: Choose a high-quality durum wheat spaghetti for a firm and satisfying texture.
* Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for imparting its pungent and aromatic flavor.
* Chilli: Red chilli peppers add a subtle heat that complements the garlic perfectly.
* Extra virgin olive oil: Use a flavorful extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall taste.
* Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch of color and flavor.

The Method:

Contaldo's method for preparing spaghetti with garlic and chilli is as straightforward as the ingredients themselves:

1. Finely chop the garlic and chilli.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet.
3. Add the garlic and chilli to the oil and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the spaghetti to the skillet and cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally.
5. Just before the spaghetti is al dente (slightly firm to the bite), add a little bit of the pasta cooking water to the skillet and stir.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Contaldo's Tips:

* To add a touch of sweetness, Contaldo suggests adding a pinch of sugar to the simmering pasta water.
* For a richer flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes or capers.
* If you don't have fresh chilli, you can use dried chilli flakes instead.
* Experiment with different types of pasta shapes, such as penne or rigatoni.

Conclusion:

Gennaro Contaldo's spaghetti with garlic and chilli is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of fresh ingredients. By following his expert guidance, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen and delight your taste buds with every flavorful bite.