Pizzoccheri is a versatile dish that can be prepared in many different ways. However, there is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations that still remains popular today. This recipe is simple, but it takes time and effort to make it right. Here is what you need to know to make traditional Pizzoccheri:
Firstly, you need a few staples that are crucial to the recipe. Buckwheat flour is the most important ingredient, which makes the pasta a brownish-grey hue. Butter and garlic are important, as well as savoy cabbage, potatoes, and a mixture of grated cheese. Garlic cloves should be lightly crushed and allowed to simmer in butter while the cabbage and potatoes are boiled together.
Next, you need to make the pasta. Mix buckwheat flour with plain flour and a pinch of salt, and add some water using a kneading technique until a dough is formed. Roll out the dough and cut it into thick, short strips. Then, boil some water with salt and cook the pasta until it’s al dente.
When the pasta is ready, add it to the pot of cabbage and potatoes. Toss the whole mixture together and add the grated cheese on top. The heat of the pasta and vegetables will melt the cheese perfectly, and will continue to cook slowly to make the cheese creamy. The finished product should be golden brown, creamy, and aromatic.
Traditionally, Pizzoccheri was a dish that was eaten by farmers. The ingredients were simple and readily available, making it a cheap and filling meal. Today, Pizzoccheri remains popular in Italian households, but it is also served in restaurants worldwide.
One of the reasons why Pizzoccheri is such a popular dish is that it is easy to prepare. It takes around an hour to make, but most of that time is spent waiting for the pasta and vegetables to cook. The recipe is also adaptable, and you can use different types of cheese or vegetables depending on what’s available.
In conclusion, Pizzoccheri is a delicious and satisfying dish that has been enjoyed by Italians for generations. While the recipe may seem simple, it takes time and effort to get it right. When prepared correctly, Pizzoccheri is a creamy, aromatic, and cheesy comfort food that will warm your soul on cold winter days.