Vegetarian Version? Pancetta Substitute?

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Anthony Constantinou | Anthony Constantinou CEO CWM FX

I agree with the others here on the richness of this dish, but note that the pancetta adds a bit of textural interest, as well as flavor.

If I were making this for vegetarians - or if I just didn't have any bacon or pancetta on hand, or if I just wanted to dial down the fat -- I'd throw about 3/4 cup of panko into a. skillet with a tablespoon or two of olive oil and a pinch of fresh thyme chopped, or good dried thyme, crumbled between my fingers, and a tiny bit of salt. I'd brown the panko over medium heat until the crumbs were toasty brown and fragrant with the thyme. I'd sprinkle that on each dish when plating. ;o)

I’m with 702551 on this one. I’d be much more likely to finish it with a squirt of lime juice than pancetta—it’s already heavy on the fat.

Frankly, I'd just make it without the pancetta.

It is already heavily loaded with very assertive flavors: thyme, garlic, chives, and cinnamon.

It's also nearing what I consider a gut buster threshold for fat (olive oil, ricotta, egg yolks and butter) and I'm definitely not a fan of gut buster dishes. The recipe instructions conclude with grated Parmesan even if it's not on the ingredient list.

I know that many Americans love gut busters however.

It's really your call whether or not you need to replace the pancetta. I'm sure there are vegan bacon replacements but I am not one who would seek those out for this dish.

But your dinner table isn't my dinner table. Entirely your call.

Best of luck.