Difference Between Angel Hair And Thin Spaghetti
When it comes to Italian cuisine, pasta is undoubtedly one of the most popular dishes around the world. With a wide variety of pasta types, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your recipe. Two of the most similar types of pasta are angel hair and thin spaghetti. Although they may seem interchangeable, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
What is Angel Hair?
Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is a very thin and delicate type of pasta. The name "angel hair" comes from its fine, hair-like strands that resemble thin spaghetti. This pasta is often used in light sauces, as it tends to get lost in heavier sauces. It is best served with simple sauces like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Due to its thinness, angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, usually in just a few minutes.
What is Thin Spaghetti?
Thin spaghetti, also known as spaghettini, is slightly thicker than angel hair pasta but still very thin compared to other pasta types. It is a long, cylindrical pasta with a diameter of about 1.8 mm. Thin spaghetti is often used in dishes with thicker sauces, as it holds up better than angel hair. It is also a good choice for cold pasta salads. Thin spaghetti takes slightly longer to cook than angel hair pasta, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Differences Between Angel Hair and Thin Spaghetti
Now that we know what angel hair and thin spaghetti are, let's take a look at the main differences between them:
- Thickness: Angel hair pasta is thinner than thin spaghetti. Angel hair is about 0.8-1 mm in diameter, while thin spaghetti is about 1.8 mm in diameter.
- Texture: Angel hair pasta is very delicate and thin, while thin spaghetti has a slightly thicker texture.
- Cooking time: Angel hair pasta cooks much faster than thin spaghetti. Angel hair usually takes only a few minutes to cook, while thin spaghetti takes around 8-10 minutes.
- Sauce: Angel hair pasta is best served with light sauces, while thin spaghetti can hold up to thicker sauces.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between angel hair and thin spaghetti ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of dish you are making. If you are looking for a delicate pasta that cooks quickly and pairs well with lighter sauces, angel hair is a great choice. However, if you want a slightly thicker pasta that can hold up to thicker sauces, then thin spaghetti is the way to go.
No matter which type of pasta you choose, it is important to cook it al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture. Also, be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
Conclusion
While angel hair and thin spaghetti may seem interchangeable, they are actually quite different. Angel hair is thinner, more delicate, and cooks faster than thin spaghetti, while thin spaghetti has a slightly thicker texture and can hold up to thicker sauces. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of dish you are making. No matter which one you choose, be sure to cook it al dente and follow the cooking instructions for best results.