Traditional Spaghetti all'Amatriciana

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 pound pancetta, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and sauté until crisp and golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions.
5. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot. Add the sauce and toss to combine.
6. Divide the spaghetti among 4 plates and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.

Interesting Facts

• The name of the dish comes from the town of Amatrice, Italy.
• This dish is traditionally made with guanciale, or cured pork jowl, but pancetta is often used as a substitute.
• The red pepper flakes give the dish a bit of heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.