Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water (if needed)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Using a fork or your hands, gradually mix the eggs with the flour until a dough starts to form.
If the dough seems too dry, add a small amount of water gradually, until you achieve a smooth and elastic consistency. Conversely, if the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour and knead it until it becomes more manageable.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading. Fold the dough over itself repeatedly, pushing down and away with the heel of your hand. Continue this process for about 8-10 minutes or until the dough feels soft and springy.
Step 3: Rest the Dough
Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten in the dough to relax and helps create a more tender giri.
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Giri
After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller sections for easier handling. Take one portion and flatten it with your hands. Keep the remaining dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
Using a rolling pin, roll out the flattened dough until it reaches a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Sprinkle a little flour as needed to prevent sticking. Once rolled out, cut the dough into small squares or rectangles that are approximately 1 inch in size.
Step 5: Shape the Giri
Now comes the fun part – shaping the giri! To do this, you can use your thumb or the handle of a wooden spoon. Place the piece of dough diagonally across either your thumb or the spoon handle and gently press down while simultaneously rolling it towards you. This will create a curled shape with a little dent in the center to help capture the sauce later on.
Repeat this process with each piece of cut dough, arranging the shaped giri in a single layer on a lightly floured surface.
Step 6: Cook and Serve
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the giri into the boiling water and cook them until they rise to the surface, approximately 2-3 minutes. Once they float, let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked giri to a serving dish or drain them in a colander. Serve these delectable Italian dumplings with your favorite sauce, whether it’s a classic tomato-based sauce or a rich and creamy Alfredo.
Now that you have mastered the art of making giri, you can enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with different sauces, add some grated Parmesan cheese, and savor the flavors of this delightful Italian dish. Buon appetito!