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Spaghetti All’Assassina (Italian Spicy Charred Spaghetti)

Total time: 45 mins.
Difficulty: Low
Serves: 2 people
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When it comes to bold, flavorful pasta dishes, few can rival the intense charm of Spaghetti all’Assassina. Translating to “Killer Spaghetti,” this iconic dish is as much about its dramatic preparation as it is about its smoky, crispy, and rich tomato flavor. It’s a dish that will leave an impression, whether you’re cooking it for yourself or impressing dinner guests.

What is Spaghetti all’Assassina?

Spaghetti all’Assassina hails from Bari, a picturesque city in Southern Italy. This dish is not your traditional pasta cooked in water and topped with sauce; instead, it’s made directly in a skillet, frying and toasting the spaghetti in olive oil before simmering it risotto-style in a rich tomato broth. This method gives the dish its signature crispy, caramelized edges and deep, smoky flavor. First gaining popularity in the 1960s, this recipe is now considered a hallmark of Apulian cuisine, showcasing the region’s love for bold flavors and simple ingredients.

Origins and History

Spaghetti all’Assassina has its roots in Bari, a vibrant coastal city in southern Italy’s Puglia region. Emerging in the 1960s, this dish was created as a bold departure from traditional pasta cooking methods. The idea of frying raw spaghetti directly in a skillet and cooking it risotto-style in a tomato broth was both innovative and practical, as it allowed home cooks to create a dish with minimal ingredients while intensifying the flavors. The name "Assassina," meaning "killer," refers to its dramatic preparation, fiery spiciness, and irresistibly bold taste. Over time, this once-local recipe has gained popularity across Italy and beyond, celebrated for its simplicity, crispy texture, and unapologetically rich character.

Why Everyone Will Love Spaghetti all’Assassina

This dish is a must-try for several reasons:

  • Unique Texture: The crispy, caramelized edges of the pasta offer a delightful contrast to the tender interior, making each bite exciting.
  • Big, Bold Flavor: The combination of rich tomato, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of heat from chili pepper creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
  • Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a gourmet-level dish.
  • Dramatic Presentation: Watching the spaghetti fry and char in the skillet is both mesmerizing and fun.
  • Perfect for Spice Lovers: The addition of chili pepper gives it a spicy kick, but you can adjust it to suit your heat tolerance.

Tips for Perfecting Spaghetti all’Assassina

  • A cast-iron or carbon steel skillet works best to achieve the signature crispy texture.
  • Allow the spaghetti to fry undisturbed for a few moments to create that crispy, charred effect.
  • The tomato broth is key—make sure to season it with enough salt and balance the puree with the tomato paste for richness.
  • Add the broth gradually, letting the spaghetti absorb it bit by bit for maximum flavor.
  • For authentic Spaghetti all’Assassina, crank up the heat at the end and let the pasta toast and crisp to perfection.

FAQ Section

Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Spaghetti?

Yes, but be aware that different types of pasta may have slightly different cooking times and textures. Regular durum wheat spaghetti works best for achieving the crispy edges.

How Spicy is This Dish?

The spice level depends on how much chili pepper you use. You can tone it down by using just a small piece or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder version.

Can I Make This in a Non-Stick Pan?

While it’s possible, an iron skillet is recommended for the best caramelization and crispy texture.

What’s The Best Olive Oil for This Dish?

Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, as it plays a significant role in the dish.

Can I Add Other Ingredients, Like Meat or Vegetables?

Traditionally, Spaghetti all’Assassina is made with just the ingredients listed, but you can experiment with adding cooked sausage, pancetta, or sautéed vegetables for a personal twist.

How to Store Spaghetti all’Assassina

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its crispy edges, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat it in a hot skillet with a touch of olive oil to bring back some of the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the pasta soggy.

Ingredients

Spaghetti
250g
Tomato paste
100g
Tomato puree
350g
Water
1l
1 clove garlic
Chili pepper
salt

How to Make Spaghetti All'Assassina

In a pot, combine 1 liter of water, 350g of tomato puree, 100g of tomato paste, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a gentle boil and set aside. In a large iron skillet, heat 100g of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 chili pepper. Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown.

Stir in a small amount of the tomato puree from the broth and mix well to build flavor. Add 250g of raw spaghetti directly to the skillet. Let it fry in the oil and sauté mixture, turning occasionally, until it starts to char and brown.

Gradually ladle the tomato broth over the spaghetti, stirring occasionally and letting it absorb before adding more. Repeat until the spaghetti is fully cooked and infused with the tomato flavor. In the final minutes, let the spaghetti fry undisturbed on high heat to develop crispy, caramelized edges.

Plate the Spaghetti all’Assassina and enjoy immediately, savoring the bold flavors and unique texture.

Try it for yourself and bring a taste of Apulia to your kitchen!

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