Delicious Spaghetti Caruso Recipe for Two

Welcome to my kitchen, where I am excited to share with you my recipe for Spaghetti Caruso. This dish is inspired by the famous Italian tenor, Enrico Caruso, who was known for his love of food and wine. In fact, legend has it that he created this dish himself in a restaurant kitchen, hence the name Spaghetti alla Caruso.

My version of Spaghetti Caruso is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner for two. It’s a classic Italian recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to be sharing it with you today.

In this recipe, you’ll find a delicious combination of ingredients, including chicken liver, mushrooms, onions, and garlic, which all come together to create a rich and savory sauce that coats the spaghetti perfectly. This recipe is easy to follow and can be made in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

So, let’s get cooking! Follow along as I guide you through the steps to create a delicious Spaghetti Caruso that will transport you straight to Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a dish that is easy to make but packs a ton of flavor? Look no further than Spaghetti Caruso! This dish is a classic Italian recipe that has been around for years, and for good reason. It’s a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that is perfect for any occasion.

One of the things that makes Spaghetti Caruso so special is the sauce. It’s a rich and savory sauce made with chicken livers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices. The chicken livers give the sauce a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in any other pasta dish.

Another great thing about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. The recipe calls for spaghetti, which is a pasta that most people already have in their pantry.

Spaghetti Caruso is also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the spaghetti for any other type of pasta, such as bucatini or penne. You can also add in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make the dish your own.

Overall, Spaghetti Caruso is a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that you will love. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a romantic meal for two, or even a dinner party with friends. Give it a try and see why this classic Italian dish has stood the test of time.

Ingredient List

Before starting to cook, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe requires a few unique ingredients that can be found in most grocery stores. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor. Here are the ingredients you will need for the Spaghetti Caruso recipe:

For the sauce:

• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 lb of chicken liver
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of dry red wine
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 1 can of canned imported tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 chili pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 oz of spaghetti per person
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 oz of bacon or ham, cooked and drained
• 8 oz of mushrooms, cut into slices

Note: If you want to make the sauce spicier, you can add more chili pepper. If you want to make it milder, you can omit the chili pepper altogether.

The Recipe How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before starting to cook, it’s essential to have all the ingredients ready on hand. For this recipe, you’ll need spaghetti, chicken liver, onions, garlic, mushrooms, tomato paste, plum tomatoes, dry red wine, bay leaf, dried basil, dried thyme, ground black pepper, salt, sugar, and Parmesan cheese.

Begin by cleaning the chicken livers, removing any fat or membranes. Cut them into small pieces and coat them with flour. Peel and chop the onions and garlic, then slice the mushrooms. Open the can of plum tomatoes and roughly chop them, reserving the juice.

Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients

In a large saucepan, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken livers and cook until brown on all sides. Remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same pan, add more oil if needed, and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender.

Next, add the tomato paste and cook for a few minutes until it turns a darker shade of red. Pour in the dry red wine and cook until it has reduced by half. Add the chopped tomatoes and their juice, the bay leaf, dried basil, dried thyme, ground black pepper, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water. The general rule of thumb is to use 2 ounces of pasta per person, but adjust according to your preference. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions.

Step 4: Combine the Spaghetti and the Sauce

Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add the spaghetti to the saucepan with the sauce and toss to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Spaghetti Caruso hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. This dish pairs well with a side salad and a glass of dry red wine. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this classic Caruso recipe with family and friends.

Substitutions and Variations

While spaghetti Caruso is a delicious classic dish, there are a few ways to switch it up and make it your own. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try:

– Meat substitutions: Instead of chicken liver, you can use ground beef or pork for a heartier dish. You can also add bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.

– Tomato substitutions: If you can’t find San Marzano tomatoes, you can use canned imported tomatoes or fresh plum tomatoes. You can also add a bell pepper or chili pepper for some extra heat.

– Pasta substitutions: While spaghetti is the traditional pasta for this dish, you can also use bucatini or any other thick spaghetti. If you want to try a Uruguayan twist on this dish, try it with uruguayan pasta con salsa Caruso.

– Sauce variations: If you want to switch up the sauce, you can add beef stock or red wine for a richer flavor. You can also add more or less tomato paste depending on how saucy you like it.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and making the dish your own. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients and flavors to create your perfect spaghetti Caruso.

Serving and Pairing

Once you have cooked your delicious Spaghetti Caruso, it’s time to serve and enjoy it to the fullest. This pasta dish is full of rich, bold flavors, making it a perfect meal for any special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home.

I recommend serving this dish hot, topped with plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance its rich and savory taste. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to add a pop of color and freshness.

As for the perfect pairing, a good rule of thumb to follow is to pair this pasta dish with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Barolo. The tannins in the wine will complement the richness of the sauce, while the acidity will cut through the fat of the liver and cheese.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon can also be a refreshing and complementary choice.

Finally, I recommend serving this pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. This will add some freshness and balance to the meal, making it a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

In summary, serving Spaghetti Caruso with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a full-bodied red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon, and a side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette will make for a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about Spaghetti Caruso is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. This is great for busy weeknights or when hosting a dinner party. To make ahead of time, simply prepare the dish as directed and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days in the fridge.

When reheating Spaghetti Caruso, you want to make sure it doesn’t dry out. Add a splash of chicken broth, beef stock or water to the dish before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also add a little extra virgin olive oil to add some moisture and flavor.

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, follow the same steps mentioned earlier. However, if the leftovers have been in the fridge for more than three days, it is best to discard them.

Spaghetti Caruso can also be frozen for later use. Once the dish has cooled down, place it in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it using the same steps mentioned earlier.

Overall, Spaghetti Caruso is a versatile dish that can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated with ease. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, meal prepping, or simply looking for a delicious and convenient meal, Spaghetti Caruso is a perfect choice.

Tips for Perfect Results

If you want to impress your guests with a delicious and hearty meal, Spaghetti Caruso is definitely the way to go. But, to make sure your dish is a success, there are a few tips you should keep in mind.

First, make sure to use high-quality ingredients. The flavor of the dish heavily relies on the quality of the tomatoes, olive oil, and chicken liver. Try using San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet flavor and low acidity. Also, opt for extra-virgin olive oil, which adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.

When cooking the chicken liver, it’s important to not overcook it. Overcooking can make the liver tough and chewy. Instead, cook it just until it’s no longer pink and has a firm texture.

Another important tip is to not overcrowd the pan. When sautéing onions and garlic, make sure they have enough room to cook evenly. Crowding the pan can cause the onions to steam and become mushy instead of caramelizing.

A good rule of thumb to follow when cooking spaghetti is to use 2 ounces of pasta per person. This will ensure that everyone has enough without having too much left over.

When boiling the pasta, make sure to generously salt the water. This will add flavor to the pasta itself. Also, don’t overcook the pasta. Spaghetti Caruso is best when the pasta is al dente, which means it still has a bit of bite to it.

Finally, don’t be afraid to add a little bit of sugar to the sauce. This can help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and make the sauce taste more well-rounded.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious Spaghetti Caruso that would make Enrico Caruso himself proud.

FAQ

As we want to ensure that your spaghetti caruso comes out perfectly, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot any issues that may arise while preparing this dish. From the right amount of spaghetti per person to alternative ingredients, we have got you covered. So, let’s get started with the FAQ section!

How much spaghetti sauce do I need per person?

When preparing a tomato-based sauce to go with your pasta, a helpful guideline to keep in mind is to use one 24-ounce jar of pasta sauce for every 16-ounce package of pasta. If you’re wondering how much sauce to use per person, a good estimate is about 2 to 4 ounces (equivalent to 1/4 to 1/2 cup) of sauce for every 2 ounces of cooked pasta (which is approximately 1 cup).

How much spaghetti sauce per pound of meat?

When preparing a dish using spaghetti sauce and meat, there is no set amount of sauce you must use. Depending on how much meat you are using, you can adjust the amount of sauce accordingly. However, it is recommended that you use around 1-2 pounds of meat per large jar of sauce. For a more precise measurement, the ideal ratio is 1 pound of meat per 1.5 pounds of spaghetti sauce.

How much spaghetti per person for spaghetti bolognese?

For optimal serving size, it is recommended to use 75g of uncooked spaghetti per person when preparing a delicious bowl of spaghetti bolognese.

How much spaghetti do I need for 12 adults?

Determining the appropriate amount of dry pasta per person is crucial when cooking this versatile dish. A general guideline would be to use 2 ounces (56 g) of dry pasta per serving.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, Spaghetti Caruso is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The rich and savory flavors of the tomato-based sauce, combined with the tender chicken liver and mushrooms, make for a dish that is simply irresistible. With this recipe, you can bring a taste of Italy into your own home and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

So why not give this recipe a try? With the detailed instructions, tips, and recommendations provided in this article, you’re sure to have a successful outcome. Whether you’re cooking for two or a larger group, Spaghetti Caruso is a dish that is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get cooking!

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