Ralphie’s "Secret" Spaghetti
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Ralphie teaches Jackie Jr. the most important lesson: finish the pasta in the pot with a little butter. 'The macaroni absorbs the gravy.' It's the only useful thing Jackie ever learned.
Spaghetti with tomato sauce, finished with butter for a glossy coating.
Instructions
- 01
Boil: Cook the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Do not overcook it. Mushy pasta is a sin.
- 02
The Secret: Drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Leave a tiny bit of the starchy water clinging to the noodles.
- 03
Return: Put the spaghetti immediately back into the hot pot you boiled it in.
- 04
The Coat: Add a ladle or two of your hot gravy (sauce) and the 4 tablespoons of butter.
- 05
The Fire: Turn the heat back on low. Stir the pasta vigorously for exactly 45 seconds.
- 06
The Logic: As Ralphie says, 'The macaroni absorbs the gravy.' The starch and butter emulsify to coat every strand perfectly.
- 07
Serve: Plate it up and top with Pecorino. Try not to think about what Ralphie does in his spare time while you enjoy this perfect dish.