What To Know
- Make a well in the center and crack in the eggs and olive oil.
- Arrange the penne on a platter and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for a visually stunning presentation.
- Yes, you can use a rolling pin to roll out the dough and a knife to cut it into shapes.
Indulge in the art of pasta-making and craft your own delectable penne from scratch. This guide will lead you through each step, empowering you to create authentic, homemade pasta that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
Equipment:
- Pasta maker
- Rolling pin
- Knife or pasta cutter
- Large pot for cooking
- Colander
Instructions:
1. Create the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center and crack in the eggs and olive oil.
- Use a fork to gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients.
- Once a dough forms, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Rest the Dough:
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the pasta easier to roll out.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
- Divide the dough into smaller portions.
- Use a rolling pin to roll out each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thick.
4. Cut the Penne:
- Use a knife or pasta cutter to cut the dough into rectangular shapes. The traditional penne size is approximately 1-1/2 inches (3.8cm) long and 5/8 inch (1.6cm) wide.
5. Create the Penne Shape:
- Take a rectangular piece of dough and place it on your hand with the short end facing you.
- Use your thumb to press down on the center of the dough, creating a crease.
- Fold the two ends of the dough over the crease and pinch them together.
- Use your thumb to gently roll the penne shape along your hand, creating the characteristic hollow tube.
6. Dry the Penne:
- Spread the uncooked penne on a lightly floured baking sheet.
- Let them dry for at least 30 minutes, or until they are no longer sticky.
7. Cook the Penne:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
- Drain the penne in a colander and serve immediately.
Enhance Your Penne Creation:
- Flavor Infusions: Add herbs, spices, or grated vegetables to the dough for a burst of flavor.
- Colored Penne: Use natural colorings like spinach juice or beet juice to create vibrant and visually appealing pasta.
- Stuffed Penne: Fill the penne tubes with your favorite fillings, such as ricotta cheese, spinach, or ground meat.
Finishing Touches:
- Sauce Pairing: Experiment with different sauces to complement your penne, from classic tomato sauce to creamy Alfredo.
- Garnish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or toasted pine nuts on top for an elegant finishing touch.
- Presentation: Arrange the penne on a platter and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for a visually stunning presentation.
A Culinary Adventure of Taste and Tradition
Mastering the art of making penne by hand is a culinary adventure that will bring joy to your kitchen and delight to your palate. Embark on this culinary journey and create authentic pasta that embodies the essence of Italian tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the secret to making smooth penne dough?
- Kneading the dough thoroughly is crucial.
- Let the dough rest to allow the gluten to relax.
- Roll the dough out thinly and evenly.
2. How do I prevent the penne from sticking together after cooking?
- Cook the penne in a large pot with plenty of boiling water.
- Stir the penne frequently during cooking.
- Rinse the penne with cold water after draining.
3. Can I make penne without a pasta maker?
- Yes, you can use a rolling pin to roll out the dough and a knife to cut it into shapes.
- The process will take longer, but the result will be equally delicious.
