Tagliatelle

Hand-cutting-pasta

Fatte in casa

Heston Blumenthal's Perfect Tagliatelle Bolognese

Tagliatelle ragù bolognese 01

Tagliatelle is a traditional type of pasta that originates from the Italian region. It is one of the many varieties of pasta that are a staple of Italian cuisine. Tagliatelle noodles are long, flat ribbons that are similar in shape to fettuccine, but are typically about 6 to 10 mm wide. This pasta is made with eggs and wheat flour, which gives it a distinctive texture and flavor.

History

The origins of tagliatelle are disputed, with various regions in Italy claiming to have invented this popular pasta. However, it is widely accepted that tagliatelle has been a part of Italian cuisine for centuries, with references to similar pasta shapes dating back to the Middle Ages. The name "tagliatelle" comes from the Italian verb "tagliare," meaning "to cut," referring to the way the pasta dough is cut into ribbons.

Preparation

To prepare tagliatelle, a dough is made from wheat flour, eggs, and sometimes a pinch of salt. The dough is then rolled out into thin sheets and cut into strips. Fresh tagliatelle can be cooked immediately, while dried tagliatelle has a longer shelf life and requires a longer cooking time.

Tagliatelle is best served with a variety of sauces, but it is most traditionally paired with a Bolognese sauce, a meat-based sauce that originates from Bologna, Italy. This classic combination is known as "Tagliatelle al Ragù" in Italy and is considered one of the country's signature dishes.

Cultural Significance

Tagliatelle holds a special place in Italian culinary tradition. It is often associated with the cuisine of the Emilia-Romagna region, particularly the city of Bologna. The pasta's width is said to be officially measured by the Accademia Italiana della Cucina, an institution dedicated to preserving Italian culinary heritage, which states that the perfect width of tagliatelle is 8 mm when cooked.

Variations

There are several variations of tagliatelle throughout Italy, including tagliolini, a thinner version of the pasta, and pappardelle, which are wider. Additionally, spinach or other vegetable purees can be added to the dough to create flavored tagliatelle, such as spinach tagliatelle.

In Popular Culture

Tagliatelle has been featured in numerous films, books, and television shows, often symbolizing Italian culture and cuisine. It is celebrated for its simplicity and versatility, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

See Also

• Pasta
• Italian cuisine
• Bolognese sauce
• Emilia-Romagna