● 200g bacon, chopped ● 1 cup kimchi, chopped ● 1 tablespoon kimchi juice (optional, for extra flavor) ● 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ● 2 cloves garlic, minced ● 1 small onion, finely chopped ● 1 cup heavy cream ● 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ● 1/4 cup tomato paste ● 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) ● Salt and black pepper to taste ● 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) ● 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
● Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. ● Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. ● Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside. 2. Prepare the Bacon and Kimchi: ● In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. ● Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. ● Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. 3. Cook the Aromatics: ● In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. ● Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. 4. Add the Kimchi: ● Stir in the chopped kimchi and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. ● Add the kimchi juice if you prefer a stronger kimchi flavor. 5. Create the Sauce: ● Reduce the heat to low and add the tomato paste, stirring well to combine with the kimchi mixture. ● Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. ● Add the red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. ● Season with salt and black pepper to taste. 6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: ● Add the cooked fusilli to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. ● Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet and mix well. ● If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 7. Finish the Dish: ● Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. ● Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. 8. Serve: ● Divide the pasta among serving plates. ● Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions.