Agnolotti

Italian cuisine is veritably renowned the world over, with their vast array of dishes and flavors beloved by food fanatics. One of the most delectable dishes to come out of Italy is that of Agnolotti. Agnolotti is a type of stuffed pasta native to the Piedmont region, usually served as a starter. This dish has an interesting history, which dates back to the 15th century when it was created by the house maids of the House of Savoy.

Agnolotti


Agnolotti are typically made from pastry-like dough, filled with a variety of savory fillings. The most common fillings shall be meats such as beef, chicken, ham and pork, along with mushrooms, ricotta cheese and vegetables. The fillings are then sealed inside the dough, resulting in small, pillowy parcels. To make Agnolotti, you must use a specific type of tool known as 'rigagnoli', which press the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling and give it its characteristic shape.

Agnolotti can be served either boiled or baked. Notably, it is often served with melted butter, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and sage, which helps to create a unique balance between the rich pasta and generous fillings. Other equally exquisite accompaniments include the likes of tomato sauce, pesto and a variety of roasted vegetables.

It is little wonder why Agnolotti remains one of the most popular dishes in Italian cuisine. Not only is it delightful in both flavor and texture, but it also provides a great platform for experimentation with different types of fillings and flavorful sauces. From its humble beginnings in the House of Savoy, Agnolotti has since become a classic Italian dish, enjoyed around the world in all its delicious glory.

Agnolotti recipes

Amazing Agnolotti recipes sourced from the web.

The origin of Agnolotti

Agnolotti, a unique and delicious Italian dish, has a rich and varied history that can be traced back to the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. The name itself is derived from the verb "agnolare," which means "to create small dent," suggesting the small shaped pasta typically found in the dish.

However, the recipe between the two sides of the Po Valley was not always uniform. The root of the original dish was likely created in the late 16th century when the House of Savoy was united under the rule of Carlo Emanuele I. Since this union covered a large area, with the territories of Piedmont and other influences merging, it's quite possible that both the recipe and the descriptive name of "Agnolette" were created and disseminated across the region.

The unique history of Agnolotti also reflects elements of all the various cultures that have had a hand in its creation and popularity over the centuries. While some believe that French influence is evident in the form of the pasta, others cite the more distant Spanish cuisine as being an important part of the recipe.

Today, the dish continues to evolve and the modern version is likely quite different than when it was first created. Many Italian chefs now take pride in creating their own personal variations of the dish, combining the historical flavors and textures with a contemporary touch. That's why Agnolotti is still a beloved staple on the Italian dinner table, with recipes continuing to be tinkered with, perfected and passed down through the generations.

FAQs about Agnolotti

Does agnolotti have a filling?

Yes, agnolotti typically have a filling made of ricotta, Parmesan, and other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, or herbs.


How is agnolotti made?

Agnolotti is typically made by rolling out a thin sheet of pasta dough and then cutting it into squares. A filling, such as ricotta cheese, spinach, or a combination of both, is then placed in the center of each square and the edges are folded up and pinched together to form pockets. These pockets are then boiled until they cook through, usually in salted boiling water.


What is the difference between ravioli and agnolotti?

Ravioli and agnolotti are both types of Italian stuffed pasta. The main difference is that ravioli are made with circular pasta dough and agnolotti are made using rectangular pasta dough. Ravioli are usually filled with cheese, meat, vegetables, or a combination of these, while agnolotti are typically filled with ricotta, spinach, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.


What is the meaning of agnolotti?

Agnolotti is an Italian pasta dish made of small, half-moon shaped stuffed pastas that are usually filled with ricotta, Parmesan cheese and other ingredients like spinach, mushrooms or ham.


Types of Agnolotti

Ah, Agnolotti. There’s nothing quite like it. Whether you’re a fan of savoury or sweet, this classic Italian dish is sure to please. But did you know there’s actually more than one type of Agnolotti? Here’s a breakdown of all the different types, complete with descriptions and tips on how to make them right.

The most traditional kind of agnolotti is the Agnolotti del Plin, which originated in Piedmont, Italy. This type of Agnolotti has a filling that typically consists of meat, vegetables, cheese, and herbs, all brought together by a creamy, Parmesan sauce. The dough is usually made of egg and flour, though for an extra burst of flavor some cooks will use chestnut or buckwheat flour. Agnolotti del Plin is best served with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

If you’re looking for something a little more decadent, then try Agnolotti di Burrata e Prosciutto. This type of Agnolotti is made with a filling of burrata and prosciutto, and the dough is often made with a combination of egg and spinach. This dish is most commonly served with a light cream sauce and a sprinkle of parsley.

For those with a sweet tooth, try Agnolotti Fatti in Casa. These delicious Agnolotti are filled with a mixture of ricotta, citrus, and sugar, and are typically served with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce. The dough is also typically made with a combination of egg and nutmeg, adding an extra layer of flavour to these sweet-tasting pastries.

And if you’re looking for a unique twist, why not try Agnolotti All’Amatriciana? This type of agnolotti features a filling of tomato and bacon, and the dough is usually made with a combination of polenta, semolina, and egg. This dish is typically served with a garlic and oregano sauce.

With so many variations of agnolotti, it’s no wonder why this classic Italian dish continues to be a favourite. From savoury to sweet, there’s an agnolotti to suit everyone.