Passatelli Asciutti: A Classic Italian Dish
Passatelli Asciutti is a traditional Italian dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. These dry passatelli, made from breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and seasoned with nutmeg and lemon zest, are a perfect example of Italian ingenuityโusing simple, humble ingredients to create something spectacular. The dish is then enhanced with a savory broth, crispy prosciutto, and a touch of butter, making for a rich and satisfying meal. Here’s how you can recreate this classic recipe at home.
Ingredients for Passatelli Asciutti (serves 4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Breadcrumbs | 120g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 120g |
| Eggs | 170g |
| Nutmeg (ground) | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon |
| Prosciutto crudo | 200g |
| Butter | 75g |
| Beef broth | 5 liters |
Instructions for Preparing Passatelli Asciutti
1. Prepare the Broth:
Start by preparing your beef broth. It’s crucial to have a flavorful, well-seasoned broth as it will play a significant role in cooking the passatelli. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer and keep it warm on the stove while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Make the Passatelli Dough:
While your broth is simmering, begin preparing the passatelli dough. Grate the zest of one lemon into a large bowl. Then, crack and lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl. In the larger bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Add the lemon zest, nutmeg, and salt to taste.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the beaten eggs into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, stirring gently to incorporate all the ingredients. Use a spatula to bring everything together into a dough. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little warm broth until it reaches the right consistency. If itโs too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs.
4. Rest the Dough:
Once your dough is ready, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This resting period is important as it allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to shape the passatelli.
5. Shape the Passatelli:
After the dough has rested, remove the plastic wrap and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Flour your hands and the top of the dough. Using a passatelli press or a potato ricer, push small amounts of dough through the press, forming long, uniform strands. Cut each piece to about 4 cm in length. Lay them out on a floured tray to prevent sticking.
6. Prepare the Prosciutto and Butter Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the prosciutto, cut into thin strips. Sautรฉ the prosciutto for about 2 minutes, allowing it to crisp up slightly and release its savory flavor. Add a ladle of warm broth and the zest of another half lemon to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Cook the Passatelli:
Now itโs time to cook the passatelli. Gently lower the passatelli into the simmering beef broth in small batches, ensuring the broth stays at a steady boil. Cook the passatelli for about 2-3 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the passatelli from the broth.
8. Combine and Finish the Dish:
Once the passatelli are cooked, transfer them directly into the skillet with the prosciutto sauce. Stir gently to coat the passatelli with the buttery, flavorful sauce. Allow the passatelli to cook for another 1-2 minutes, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the broth and prosciutto.
9. Serve:
Serve the passatelli hot, garnished with a little extra Parmesan cheese if desired. These passatelli asciutti are perfect as a stand-alone dish or can be enjoyed as a hearty first course at a family meal or special gathering.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
Tips and Variations:
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano, to add a new twist to the dish.
- You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the broth to elevate the flavor further.
Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Italy right into your kitchen. Passatelli asciutti is a perfect way to savor simple ingredients while experiencing the true essence of Italian cuisine.
