Who loves Vodka?

Don't get too excited, guys. I'm not necessarily talking about the drink. This recipe is all about the pasta and spiking that sauce with a Russian kick. Oh and by the way, this is my take on the traditional Penne ala Vodka.

1lb. of cooked Penne, al dente!
1/4lb. Pancetta, thick cut

1 bunch of scallions, chopped

5 garlic cloves, finely chopped

olive oil, for sauteing

sea salt, to taste

peppercorn medley, to taste

(^mentioned in previous entry)

3/4 cup good quality vodka

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 cups crushed tomato sauce

bunch of basil, thinly sliced for garnish.

grated Parmesan, for garnish.

In a medium sauce pot, coat the bottom with olive oil. While the pot is heating up, cut the Pancetta (Italian bacon, you can find this in the deli at your local supermarket) into chunks then throw into the pot. Once the pancetta is just about to reach it's crisping point, throw in scallions, then garlic and sauté until translucent. Add sea salt & peppercorn medley to taste. Add vodka (be careful not to cause a fire), let the alcohol cook out thoroughly. You only want this for the taste. Once vodka has cooked out, add the heavy whipping cream. Let come to a simmer and thicken. Once this cream mixture has thickened (its good enough to eat on its own!!), throw in the crushed tomato sauce. Let come to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until flavors have come together nicely.

Now throw in your perfectly cooked al dente pasta, toss, plate & garnish with freshly grated Parmiggiano Reggiano & Basil! Enjoy!