Recipe

Penne alla Vodka

Recipe
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by DueSpaghetti

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by DueSpaghetti

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by DueSpaghetti

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by DueSpaghetti

Chef
DueSpaghetti's Notes: Every once in a while we spike the tomato sauce. You should try it sometime. What is better draped over pasta perfectly al dente than a tangy, velvety vodka sauce? Our friends and family...
Every once in a while we spike the tomato sauce.

You should try it sometime. What is better draped over pasta perfectly al dente than a tangy, velvety vodka sauce? Our friends and family tell us that no vodka sauce is as intoxicatingly delicious as ours, and we believe them.

Onions and pancetta sautéed in butter is part of the secret. The mild sweetness of the cream juxtaposed with the heat of crushed red pepper is another. A perfectly smooth tomato sauce is a must, but there is another ingredient yet that makes our vodka sauce special – brandy.

We have our sister-in-law, Valentina, to thank for the brilliant decision to add brandy to vodka sauce. We’re not sure why she has always added it, but we know that it makes the difference between a good vodka sauce and a great one.

Most of us are attracted to vodka sauce because of the sophisticated, slightly risque image it solicits (pasta sauce risque??). There is functionality behind the fashion, however. Tomatoes have flavor compounds that are alcohol-soluble, meaning that they are released by alcohol. While the sauce simmers, the vodka and brandy tease these intense flavors out of the tomatoes. The alcohol cooks off (mostly) in the process, leaving just a hint of boozy undertones.

So, go ahead and add some hooch to your tomato sauce from time to time. You’re sure to become addicted.

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Serves 4

1 lb. package of penne or pennette Ask a question about this ingredient

1 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes Ask a question about this ingredient

3 tablespoons butter Ask a question about this ingredient

1/4 of a medium onion Ask a question about this ingredient

6 ounces pancetta Ask a question about this ingredient

1/2 cup panna da cucina, crema mexicana, creme fraiche or heavy whipping creame Ask a question about this ingredient

1/2 cup vodka Ask a question about this ingredient

1/4 cup brandy Ask a question about this ingredient

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper Ask a question about this ingredient

Salt Ask a question about this ingredient

Parmesan Ask a question about this ingredient

Cut the onion into large pieces that can be removed once sautéed.
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Dice the pancetta into small cubes.
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In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add the onion and pancetta and sauté until the onions are translucid and the pancetta is crispy.
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Place the food mill on top of the saucepan and pass the tomatoes and their sauce through it, producing a smooth tomato sauce.
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Add the vodka, brandy, crushed red pepper and salt. Allow to simmer for 45 minutes.
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Remove from heat, and add the panna da cucina and stir well.
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In the meanwhile, bring a pot of water to boil. Add a handful of salt (possibly coarse salt) to the water, and add the pasta.
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Cook to al dente according to the time on the package.
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Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and pour the sauce over it. Serve immediately topped with grated parmesan.
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