What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- A rolling pin
- A sharp knife or pasta machine
Step 1: Create the Pasta Dough
Start by making a well-shaped mound of flour on a clean, flat surface. Using your hands, create a small well in the center of the mound. Crack the eggs into the well and add a pinch of salt.
With a fork, gently beat the eggs and begin incorporating the flour from the edges of the well. Continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.
Once the dough begins to form, use your hands to knead it for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a small amount of flour. Conversely, if it feels too dry, add a touch of water.
Step 2: Rest the Dough
After kneading the dough, shape it into a ball and wrap it tightly with cling film. Allow the dough to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting period will help the gluten relax and make the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Fettuccine
Once the dough has rested, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Start by flattening the dough with your hands, then use the rolling pin to roll it out into a thin rectangle. Aim for a thickness of around 1/8 inch.
To cut the dough into fettuccine noodles, fold the dough into a loose cylinder shape and slice it into desired widths using a sharp knife. Alternatively, you can use a pasta machine to achieve evenly sized noodles.
Step 4: Cook and Enjoy!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your freshly made fettuccine noodles and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Remember, fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta.
Once the fettuccine is cooked, drain it well and toss it with your favorite sauce or toppings. Whether it’s a classic Alfredo sauce, marinara, or a simple garlic and olive oil combination, homemade fettuccine is a versatile dish ready to be customized to your liking.
Now that you’ve learned the step-by-step process, you have the power to create delicious fettuccine whenever you have the craving. So, why not take the plunge and start mastering the art of making fettuccine in your own kitchen today?
Happy cooking!