Craving a pasta dish that's both comforting and unexpectedly exciting? Look no further than this Korean Sesame Leaf Bacon Pasta, a one-pan wonder that's surprisingly easy to make. Forget complicated sauces and endless prep – this recipe utilizes the bold, savory flavor of bacon and the unique, slightly nutty taste of sesame leaves to create a rich and flavorful oil-based pasta. The simple yet elegant combination results in a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated gathering. This recipe offers a delicious fusion of Korean and Italian flavors, showcasing the versatility of sesame leaves in a truly satisfying way.
Imagine perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a fragrant oil infused with crispy bacon and the subtle earthiness of sesame leaves. Ready to experience this delicious flavor explosion? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and create this unforgettable Korean Sesame Leaf Bacon Pasta together.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Sesame leaves (perilla leaves): 10
- Bacon: 3 strips
- Garlic: 20g
- Spaghetti noodles: 90g
- Chicken stock: 2 spoons
- Salted anchovies: 1/2 spoon
- Olive oil: 5 tablespoons + 1 spoon
- Peperoncino (or Cheongyang pepper): null
- Salt: null
- Pepper: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Cook Bacon
- Wash sesame leaves thoroughly (three times) and cut them in half. Roll and thinly slice them.
- Cut bacon into small pieces.
- Slice garlic.
- Fry bacon in a heated pan until cooked. Set aside.
Step 2. Cook the Pasta
- Heat olive oil (5 tablespoons) in the same pan. Add garlic and cook until golden brown.
- Add water, bring to a boil, then add spaghetti, chicken stock, and salted anchovies.
- Boil for 10-11 minutes, stirring occasionally. Crumble peperoncino (or Cheongyang pepper) and add.
Step 3. Wilt Sesame Leaves & Season
- Just before turning off the heat, add sesame leaves and stir well. Add 1 spoon of olive oil, then season with pepper.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve pasta, topping with the cooked bacon.
Read more: Glass Noodle Stir-fry with Shrimp & Veggies: Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- The bacon releases its own fat, so you don't need additional cooking oil.
- This recipe is designed for one serving but can be easily scaled up. Ingredients are used generously.
- This is a one-pot dish, simplifying the cooking process.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the bacon?
Yes! Pancetta, guanciale, or even crispy tofu would work well as substitutes for the bacon. Adjust the salt accordingly.
2. What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Use a pasta that holds its shape well, such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Avoid overly delicate pastas.
3. Where can I find sesame leaves?
Sesame leaves are often found in Asian grocery stores. If unavailable, you can omit them, but the flavor will be different. You could try substituting with spinach or other leafy greens, but the flavor profile will change significantly.
This Korean Sesame Leaf Bacon Pasta offers a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The one-pan method makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy this satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this unforgettable pasta recipe!