Edition April 2025

In this edition, Pretoria-based executive Chef Thulane Kekana treats us to his irresistible Spaghetti Carbonara recipe, guaranteed to delight your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter.
• 226.8 g (1/2 pound) pancetta or thick cut bacon, diced.
• 1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced, about 1 teaspoon (optional).
• 3 to 4 whole eggs.
• 1 cup grated parmesan or pecorino cheese.
• 453.6 g (1 pound) spaghetti.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Method:

• Put a large pot of salted water to boil (1 tablespoon salt for every 2 quarts of water.)
• While the water is coming to a boil, heat the olive oil or butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the bacon or pancetta and cook slowly until crispy.
• Add the garlic (if using) and cook for another minute, then turn off the heat and put the bacon or pancetta and garlic into a large bowl.
• In a small bowl, beat the eggs and mix in about half of the cheese. 
• Once the water has reached a rolling boil, add the dry pasta and cook, uncovered, at a rolling boil.
• When the pasta is al dente (still a little firm, not mushy), use tongs to move it to the bowl with the bacon or pancetta and garlic. Let it be dripping wet. Reserve some of the pasta water.
• Move the pasta from the pot to the bowl quickly – the pasta should remain hot. It is the heat of the pasta that will heat the eggs sufficiently to create a creamy sauce.
• Toss everything to combine, allowing the pasta to cool just enough so that it does not make the eggs curdle when you mix them in.

*This recipe serves about four people and pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of Chardonnay.

About the chef:

Chef Kekana’s vibrant culinary career spans nearly a decade – marked by his experience in overseeing the smooth running of hospitality establishments, crafting innovative menus and mentoring emerging talent in the kitchen.

Specialising in main courses, pastry and deli, he excels in menu development and costings, chef training, stock management and delivering exceptional food and service with every dish.

For more information, email Chef Kekana: thulanekekanan@gmail.com or follow him on Facebook @Thulane Kekana.