The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Irresistible Homemade Pasta

Make your own pasta at home

Making pasta by hand may seem impressive, but the reality is that homemade pasta is surprisingly easy to make. You can get started with just three ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Even if all you have are a and a Hamilton Beach Stack & Snap Food Processor, you can still make delicious pasta from scratch.

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Making the pasta dough

While there are countless fresh pasta recipes out there, it's best to begin with a simple pasta dough that only requires a few ingredients: unbleached all-purpose flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt.

If you prefer, you can opt for semolina durum flour, which is a more traditional pasta flour known for its higher protein content and coarser texture that enhances sauce adherence. However, if all-purpose flour is all that is available in your pantry, it will still yield fantastic pasta.

On a clean work surface, place 10 ounces of flour and create a well. Into the well, add two eggs plus four CucinaPro Pasta Maker Deluxe Set

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Making pasta shapes with a pasta machine

To prepare your dough, you can either roll it out by hand or make use of a convenient pasta roller.

Weston Bamboo Pasta Drying Rack Once you have your dough ready, you can begin rolling it out.

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Cooking fresh pasta

When it comes to cooking homemade pasta, it requires very little time. Depending on the shape, boiling it in water for only two to four minutes is usually sufficient, while stuffed pasta may need slightly longer. Don't forget to generously salt your cooking water to enhance the flavor of your pasta, especially if your dough recipe doesn't include salt. Lastly, make sure to serve your freshly cooked pasta immediately.

How to dry fresh pasta

Instead, you have the option of drying your uncooked pasta to preserve it for later use. While it may seem counterintuitive to leave egg-based food exposed, proper drying and storage will eliminate any moisture that could foster bacteria.

Begin by tossing the pasta shapes in flour, then arrange the strands in a single layer on a drying rack or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow the pasta to dry naturally, without any cover, and keep it away from heat and direct sunlight. Alternatively, you can use a food dehydrator for more consistent results, especially on humid days. You'll know the pasta is ready for storage when it snaps instead of bending. Store it in a dry, airtight container in your pantry or freezer.

FAQ

Q. How long does homemade pasta last?

A. Commercially made pasta has a longer shelf life compared to homemade pasta. Uncooked pasta can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for only one day. On the other hand, properly dried homemade pasta can be kept in your pantry for up to six weeks. An alternative option is to freeze the dough wrapped in plastic wrap before cutting it into shapes, which allows it to be stored for up to one month.

Q. What sauces go with homemade pasta?

A. The choice of how to serve your pasta may vary depending on personal preference, but the type of pasta shape plays a role as well. Pairing fettuccine or tagliatelle with a homemade alfredo sauce or pesto can be delightful. Wider pasta such as pappardelle is perfect for enjoying with slow-simmered meat sauces. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor of your fresh pasta, especially ravioli, by simply tossing it in browned butter and adding high-quality Parmesan.