Cacio e Pepe

Cook it step by step

1. 1

   Before cooking, read every step, measure all listed ingredients and prepare the cookware named by the method. Wash and dry fresh produce, then prepare it to the size described before heating the pan.

2. 2

   Toast coarsely crushed pepper in a wide pan.

3. 3

   Boil pasta in lightly salted water until very al dente. Start timing only after the liquid returns to a steady boil; check after 5 minutes and continue only until the stated texture is reached.

4. 4

   Add a ladle of starchy water to the pepper.

5. 5

   Transfer pasta and toss vigorously, adding water as it finishes cooking.

6. 6

   Remove from direct heat and work in finely grated cheese until creamy. Use medium heat for 1–2 minutes, stopping when the fat shimmers or the mixture is hot and aromatic but not smoking.

7. 7

   Rest the finished food for 3–5 minutes where appropriate, taste for final seasoning and serve while its intended crispness, tenderness or temperature is at its best.