Smoked Vodka Penne (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
1/2 pound of penne (or any short pasta).
02 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
03 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
04 -
1/2 shallot, minced fine.
05 -
4 cloves of garlic, chopped.
06 -
6 ounces tomato paste.
07 -
1/2 teaspoon salt.
08 -
1/4 cup vodka.
09 -
3/4 cup heavy cream.
10 -
1/2 cup shredded smoked mozzarella.
11 -
2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped.
12 -
Pasta water (as needed).
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a big pot of water to a rolling boil.
02 -
In a large pan, melt the butter with olive oil over low heat. Toss in the minced shallot and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it softens. Add the garlic and keep cooking for another minute or two.
03 -
Add the tomato paste and sprinkle in the salt. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes on medium-low heat until the paste darkens in color.
04 -
Pour in the vodka and stir to deglaze the pan. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the vodka’s completely evaporated.
05 -
Take the pan off the burner and stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
06 -
Once the water’s boiling, salt it well. Cook the pasta until it’s just slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
07 -
Drain the pasta and toss it into the pan with your sauce along with 1/4 cup of the reserved water. Stir over medium heat until the pasta is coated nicely.
08 -
Stir in the smoked mozzarella and adjust the consistency of the sauce with pasta water, adding a little at a time.
09 -
Dish it out right away, topped with some chopped parsley for garnish.
# Notes:
01 -
A creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
02 -
Thin the sauce to your liking with reserved pasta cooking water.