Spaghetti Alla Chitarra Fatti In Casa
If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, chances are you've heard of spaghetti alla chitarra. This traditional dish hails from the Abruzzo region of Italy and is a staple in many households. The dish is made with homemade spaghetti noodles, which are then tossed in a rich tomato sauce and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a comforting and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion.
What is Spaghetti alla Chitarra?
Spaghetti alla chitarra is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Abruzzo. It's made with a special type of pasta known as spaghetti alla chitarra, which is a square-shaped spaghetti noodle. The pasta gets its unique shape from being pressed through a chitarra, which is a wooden frame with strings that resemble a guitar. The end result is a noodle that's thicker and more substantial than regular spaghetti.
How to Make Spaghetti alla Chitarra from Scratch
To make spaghetti alla chitarra from scratch, you'll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
1. Begin by making a well in the center of the flour and adding the eggs and salt. Use a fork to whisk the eggs and gradually incorporate the flour until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. After the dough has rested, roll it out into a thin sheet. Use a chitarra to cut the dough into square-shaped spaghetti noodles.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti alla chitarra for 2-3 minutes or until al dente.
How to Make the Tomato Sauce
Now that you have your homemade spaghetti alla chitarra, it's time to make the tomato sauce. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
Putting it All Together
Once your spaghetti alla chitarra and tomato sauce are ready, it's time to combine them. Here's how:
1. Drain the spaghetti alla chitarra and add it to the pan with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat the noodles in the sauce.
2. Serve the spaghetti alla chitarra hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil.
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti alla chitarra fatti in casa is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner for two or a family-style meal, this dish is sure to please. Making the homemade pasta may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. Plus, the end result is well worth the effort.
