**Orecchiette: A Journey Through the Flavors of Puglia**
Originating from the sun-kissed region of Puglia in Southern Italy, orecchiette, meaning "little ears" in Italian, are a culinary delight that embodies the rustic charm and rich flavors of the region. These small, ear-shaped pasta are crafted from a simple dough of durum wheat flour and water, and their unique shape allows them to perfectly capture sauces and fillings. In this comprehensive guide, we'll embark on a culinary journey through the world of orecchiette, exploring a diverse collection of recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved pasta. From classic orecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage to innovative takes featuring seafood, vegetables, and creamy sauces, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Puglia. Get ready to discover the magic of orecchiette and create unforgettable meals that celebrate the authentic flavors of Southern Italy.
HOMEMADE ORECCHIETTE PASTA
Orecchiette are the typical pasta of Apulia (Puglia), the heel of Italy. Nowadays you can buy them in many supermarkets all over the world, but local women in the region still hand-make them for special occasions or just for Sunday lunch. The most traditional way to serve them is with broccoli rabe and anchovy sauce.
Provided by Anonymous
Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian
Time 1h40m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Mix semolina flour and salt in a large bowl or on a marble work surface. Make a well in the center.
- Pour water into the well a little at a time, mixing it with the flour. Add as much water as needed to make a sticky but compact dough.
- Knead dough with your hands by flattening the ball, stretching it, and folding the top towards the center. Turn 45 degrees and repeat until dough is elastic and smooth, but not too soft, about 10 minutes.
- Shape dough into a ball. Place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
- Work with one portion of dough at a time, keeping the remaining dough covered to keep it from drying out. Dust a work surface with semolina flour; roll out the dough to make a rope, about 1/3 inch thick.
- Cut off little 1/3-inch thick pieces. Pick up knife with a rounded tip. Carefully hold one side of the dough with your index finger. Hold the knife in your other hand. Gently drag the small piece of dough towards you. Lift up the knife by the end in such a way that you get a thicker edge. You'll obtain a small disk of dough, thinner in the centre. Press the disk gently against your thumb and it will curve.
- Proceed the same way with the rest of the dough. Transfer orecchiette onto a floured surface and sprinkle with more semolina flour. Do not overlap orecchiette or they will stick together. Let dry for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Nutrition Facts : Sodium 40.5 mg
STEP-BY-STEP ORECCHIETTE
See Lucinda Scala Quinn make orecchiette in our step-by-step photo tutorial. Any extra orecchiette can be frozen up to six weeks: First, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag and return them to the freezer. Boil directly from the freezer.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Pasta and Grains
Time 1h
Yield Makes 1 1/2 pounds dough
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Mound semolina and all-purpose flours and salt in 3 separate piles on a large, clean work surface.
- Using your fingers, swirl ingredients together until combined.
- Gather flour mixture into a pile, and create a well in center. Pour 1/2 cup water into well.
- Gradually incorporate flour mixture into water using your fingers.
- Once all the water is absorbed, continue adding water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until mixture begins to form a dough.
- Start to gather and knead dough, working it until no dry flour remains on work surface.
- Continue to knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
- Divide dough into 16 equal portions, and cover them with a clean, damp kitchen towel.
- Roll 1 portion of dough into an 18-inch-long rope.
- Use a knife to cut and drag a 1/3-inch piece of dough from end of rope facing you -- a grainy wooden cutting board helps grip the dough.
- Holding knife at a 45-degree angle to work surface, press and roll dough toward you.
- Unfurl each piece of dough over your thumb in the opposite direction to form a concave shape, and transfer to a rimmed baking sheet lightly sprinkled with semolina flour. Repeat with remaining dough. Orecchiette can be stored at room temperature in a single layer overnight; cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Tips for Making Orecchiette Pasta
- Use a high-quality semolina flour for the best results.
- Make sure the water is boiling before adding the pasta.
- Stir the pasta frequently while it is cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- Cook the pasta until it is al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta well and then toss it with your favorite sauce.
- Serve the pasta immediately.
Conclusion
Orecchiette pasta is a delicious and versatile pasta that can be enjoyed with a variety of sauces. It is a relatively easy pasta to make, but it does require a little bit of time and effort. If you are looking for a new and exciting pasta to try, then orecchiette is a great option. With its unique shape and texture, orecchiette is sure to please everyone at your table.
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