What is Pizzoccheri?
Pizzoccheri is a hearty pasta dish that originated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. It is typically made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cabbage, and an abundance of melted cheese. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and comforting dish that is perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients
- 200g buckwheat flour
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 4 medium potatoes
- 100g cabbage
- 150g Bitto cheese (substitute: Fontina or Gruyere)
- 100g Parmesan cheese
- 100g butter
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Making the Pasta Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Using a fork, slowly mix the eggs into the flour until a dough starts to form. Knead the dough by hand until it becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preparing the Potatoes and Cabbage
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook them until they are tender. In a separate pot of boiling water, blanch the cabbage leaves for a few minutes until they become slightly softened. Remove the cabbage from the water and set it aside.
Step 3: Rolling and Cutting the Pasta
Divide the pasta dough into smaller portions. Using a rolling pin, roll out each portion to a thickness of about 2-3 mm. Cut the rolled dough into rectangular-shaped noodles, approximately 1 cm wide.
Step 4: Assembling and Cooking the Pizzoccheri
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant. Add the cooked potatoes and cabbage to the skillet, tossing them to coat with the butter and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the pasta for about 5 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the potatoes and cabbage. Toss everything together.
Grate the Bitto cheese and Parmesan cheese. Add the grated cheese to the skillet, stirring gently until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Transfer the Pizzoccheri to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and piping hot!
Now that you have followed our easy step-by-step guide and watched our video tutorial, you are ready to impress your loved ones with homemade Pizzoccheri. So grab your apron and get cooking!