We're Going Back to Basics

After a challenging month of hospitalization due to pregnancy complications, the hosts are settling into temporary housing in Cosenza, Italy, and rediscovering the joy of simple home cooking by preparing a foundational spaghetti al pomodoro.

• Medical situation — After spending a month in the hospital, Eva has been discharged but must remain in Cosenza for mandatory health check-ups every 48 hours [02:38].
• Viewer support — The couple expressed deep gratitude for the messages, donations, and emotional support received from followers during their time in the hospital [03:39].
• Tomato selection — Fresh cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for this dish because they provide a vibrant, intense flavor profile and are a reliable option when high-quality large tomatoes are unavailable [07:43].
• Garlic preparation — Instead of using a press, the garlic should be sliced and have its "soul"—the green center—removed to prevent a bitter, overpowering taste [10:46].
• Cooking technique — To ensure the sauce integrates properly, follow these steps:
  • Cook the pasta until it is slightly underdone [16:02].
  • Transfer the noodles directly from the boiling water to the pan instead of draining them in a colander [16:59].
  • Finish cooking the pasta in the sauce with a splash of starchy pasta water to bind the flavors [17:14].

What is the reason for removing the "soul" from a garlic clove? How does adding pasta water to the sauce affect the final texture of the dish?