Mezzani (pasta)

Mezzani is a type of pasta originating from Italy. It is characterized by its medium length and tubular shape, which is similar to penne but slightly curved. The name 'mezzani' is derived from the Italian word 'mezzo', meaning 'half', referring to its half-length size compared to other pasta types.

History

The exact origin of mezzani is unclear, but it is believed to have been developed in Southern Italy, where pasta has been a staple food for centuries. The production of pasta in this region dates back to the Roman Empire, and mezzani is thought to have evolved from earlier pasta shapes.

Production

Mezzani is traditionally made from durum wheat semolina, which is mixed with water to form a dough. The dough is then extruded through a die to create the distinctive tubular shape. Some modern versions of mezzani may also include other ingredients, such as eggs or flavored pastas with spinach or tomato.

Culinary Use

Mezzani is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often served with robust, hearty sauces, as the tubular shape holds sauce well. It is also commonly used in baked pasta dishes, such as pasta al forno, and in pasta salads. In addition, mezzani can be used in soups, where its medium length makes it a good choice for broths and stews.

See Also

• Pasta
• Italian Cuisine
• Durum Wheat
• Penne