Angel Hair Vs Capellini Vs Thin Spaghetti
If you love pasta, you must have come across the terms angel hair, capellini, and thin spaghetti. These pasta types are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. In this article, we will take a look at the differences between angel hair, capellini, and thin spaghetti, and how to use them in cooking.
Angel Hair
Angel hair pasta is the thinnest pasta type available in the market. It is also known as capelli d'angelo in Italian, which means "angel hair." Angel hair pasta is delicate and thin, with a diameter of about 0.85 millimeters. It cooks quickly, usually in two to three minutes, and has a soft, tender texture.
Angel hair pasta is best served with light sauces, such as olive oil, garlic, and lemon, to avoid overpowering the pasta's delicate flavor. It is also commonly used in Asian dishes, such as stir-fries and soups.
Capellini
Capellini is also known as "fine hair" or "angel hair," but it is slightly thicker than angel hair pasta. It has a diameter of about 0.9 millimeters and cooks in three to four minutes. Capellini is still delicate, but it can hold up better with slightly thicker sauces, such as tomato-based sauces.
Capellini is best served with light sauces that do not weigh it down. It is commonly used in Italian dishes, such as seafood pasta and pasta primavera.
Thin Spaghetti
Thin spaghetti is slightly thicker than capellini, with a diameter of about 1.4 millimeters. It takes about nine to ten minutes to cook and has a firmer texture than angel hair and capellini. Thin spaghetti can hold up well with heavier sauces, such as meat-based sauces and cream sauces.
Thin spaghetti is commonly used in Italian-American dishes, such as spaghetti and meatballs and spaghetti carbonara.
Conclusion
Angel hair, capellini, and thin spaghetti are three different pasta types that are often used interchangeably. Angel hair is the thinnest and most delicate, while capellini is slightly thicker and can hold up better with slightly thicker sauces. Thin spaghetti is the thickest and has a firmer texture, making it suitable for heavier sauces. Knowing the differences between these pasta types can help you choose the right one for your dish and enjoy the perfect pasta every time.
