Carmela Soprano's Penne alla Vodka / Penne in Cream Sauce

I've enjoyed remembering when Paul and I travelled across Canada 40 years ago.

But I've gotten some e mails. 

Where are the recipes?

You're right...

Back to The Sopranos Family Cookbook.

Artie's chapter Mia Cucina is about his training and his own creations.

In it he also talks about a recipe that annoyed his parents.

Penne alla Vodka.

Vodka?

Actually, it's really good.

And pretty easy.

I found dry white wine worked well, too.

Vodka or wine... your choice.

Just think twice before telling your guests what's in the sauce.

                        Penne alla Vodka

In a large pot bring to boil

4 quarts water

In a dutch oven melt

3 Tablespoons butter

Add

2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped

Cook until golden.

Stir in 

2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into thin strips

Cook 1 minute.

Add

1 large can Italian tomatoes, drained and chopped

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Simmer 5 minutes.

Stir in

1/2 Cup heavy cream

Stirring, cook 1 minute.

Add

1/4 Cup vodka

Cook 2 minutes. 

Season to taste with 

Salt

Add to the water boiling in the dutch oven

1 pound penne

Cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente.

Drain, but reserve some of the water.

Add the pasta to the sauce and toss.

If the sauce is too thick add some of the cooking water.

Add

1/2 Cup grated Parmigiano

Serve immediately.

Would I make Penne alla Vodka again?

Sure.

It's just macaroni and cheese.

With a little kick.

One recipe down.  Ninety-four more to go.