Rigatoni alla Vodka

Method

1. 01

   Boil the rigatoni

   Boil the rigatoni in well-salted water. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 02

   Build the base

   Melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the shallot for 3 minutes, then add the garlic and chili flakes for 30 seconds.

3. 03

   Cook the tomato paste

   Add the tomato paste. Stir and cook for 4–5 minutes, until it darkens to brick red.

4. 04

   Add the vodka

   Pour in the vodka and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sharp smell fades.

5. 05

   Add the cream

   Lower the heat and stir in the cream until the sauce is smooth and blush-colored.

6. 06

   Toss

   Add the pasta, Parmigiano, and a splash of pasta water. Toss until glossy.

7. 07

   Finish

   Finish with fresh basil and more Parmigiano.