Spicy Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Rigatoni pasta served with a spicy vodka-infused tomato cream sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Soho House Restaurant
Spicy Rigatoni Alla Vodka, while inspired by Italian cuisine, is largely considered an Italian-American creation. Alla Vodka sauces gained popularity in Italy during the 1970s and 80s, potentially influenced by trends from America. The addition of spice, particularly red pepper flakes, is a more contemporary and often Americanized adaptation.
Spicy Rigatoni Alla Vodka represents a modern and comforting approach to Italian-American cuisine. It's a dish that's both satisfying and easily adaptable, often enjoyed in casual settings.
Social Media Popularity
The dish has gained significant popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, leading to increased demand and variations of the recipe.
Comfort Food Staple
It's often considered a comfort food due to its creamy texture and satisfying flavors, making it a popular choice for home cooking and restaurant menus alike.
Italian-American Identity
The dish, while inspired by Italian ingredients, showcases the unique culinary identity of Italian-Americans, who have adapted and evolved traditional recipes with their own twists.
Rich, creamy, and spicy, with a balance of sweet and savory notes.
The dominant flavor is a creamy tomato base enriched with vodka, which helps emulsify the sauce and release flavors. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth, while red pepper flakes provide the desired spiciness. Onion and garlic contribute to the aromatic base. There's a slight sweetness from the tomatoes, balanced by the acidity of the tomato paste and the richness of the cream.
Vodka Usage
Don't skip the vodka! It helps emulsify the sauce and release flavors that wouldn't otherwise be present. Use a decent quality vodka, but no need for top shelf.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Calabrian chili paste is also a great addition for extra heat and flavor.
Pasta Water
Reserve some of the pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps thicken the sauce and allows it to cling better to the rigatoni.
Cream Quality
Use heavy cream for the richest and most luscious sauce. Half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative, but the sauce won't be as decadent.
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