Casarecce
Casarecce is made with a type of short cut, curled-shaped pasta that is cooked al dente. It's often cooked with a rich tomato sauce, but can also be served with pesto, cream sauces and even fresh vegetables. The secret to the dish is its delectable combination of simple ingredients, including onions, garlic, anchovies, capers, olives, sardines and pecorino cheese, which all contribute to an unmistakeable umami-filled flavour.
The dish itself has a surprisingly long history, first appearing in written records around the 15th century. From humble beginnings, it has now become a firm favourite among Italian households, as well as those further afield, thanks to its deliciousness, versatility and ease of preparation.
On top of being irresistibly scrumptious, Casarecce is incredibly adaptable and can be fashioned into different shapes and sizes according to individual tastes. Whether you're after a creamy Alfredo-style dish, or a more vibrant red sauce with vegetables, the options are endless.
If you've never tried Casarecce before, then give it a go! Its unique textures, aromas and flavours make it an exciting and nutritious addition to any meal. You won't regret it.
Casarecce recipes
Amazing Casarecce recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Casarecce
Casarecce, for those unfamiliar with the dish, is an Italian pasta that has a unique shape and distinctive taste. While its origin story may be shrouded in mystery, the dish itself is no doubt popular in many Italian households.
The history of this traditional pasta variety is often up for debate among those who make it, but it's believed to date back to the 13th century. At this time, pasta dishes were becoming increasingly common in Italy and various types of pasta could be found throughout the country. It’s thought that casarecce was created as an alternative to traditional pasta dishes by combining two smaller pieces of semolina dough. As early as 1574, the first recorded reference to the pasta dish was made, calling it "maccheroncelli".
The name “casarecce” is derived from the Sicilian word “caciocavallo” which translates to “shaped like cheese.” This origin is thought to be related to the unique c-shaped appearance of the pasta, with each piece resembling a cheese wheel. There are also other theories surrounding its origins, such as the suggestion that the pasta's shape was created to emulate the curved shape of Roman amphorae, while others suggest it was designed to resemble the letter C - a symbol of luck.
Regardless of its exact origins, casarecce has certainly become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine. This hearty, robustly flavored pasta is a perennial favorite because of its texture and shape, ideal for holding a variety of sauces or stuffing with meats or vegetables for a tasty meal. Casarecce can also be cooked in a variety of interesting ways, from boiling to sautéing, and can be served with a range of tantalizing sauces.
So, the next time you’re at the grocery store hunting for a delicious Italian treat, give casarecce a try. Its delectable flavor and unique shape will be sure to fill your belly and your heart with warmth.
Types of Casarecce
Casarecce is a type of pasta that, while rarely discussed amongst food aficionados, warrants more attention and appreciation due to the versatility of its shapes and flavor combinations. Casarecce, meaning "little houses" in Italian, is a tube-like shape pasta with a narrower center that curls inward. This shape allows for some interesting cooking when combined with various sauces and ingredients, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
One of the main types of Casarecce is the traditional variety. This type of pasta is usually made from a durum wheat semolina, giving it a great color and a chewy texture which is perfect for absorbing sauces. Such a pasta also works well with heavier sauces, such as Bolognese, as the ridges formed by its unique shape help hold the sauce. The small size of its shape also makes it ideal to use in soups and broths, adding an extra burst of flavor.
Another popular variety of the pasta is smoked Casarecce. This type has been smoked over wood, creating a smoky flavor and aroma. This type of pasta works particularly well with certain recipes, such as truffles and mushrooms, which benefit from a hint of smokiness. It can also be added to salads, as the smokiness provides a subtle contrast to the freshness of the vegetables.
For those looking for something a bit more unusual, there is poppy seed Casarecce. This type of Casarecce has been rolled in poppy seeds, giving the pasta a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. This type of pasta goes particularly well with lighter sauces, such as pesto or basil, as the poppy seeds bring out the flavor of the herbs. It can also be served with cheese sauces, as the crunchiness of the poppy seeds adds an unexpected twist.
Finally, there is spinach Casarecce, which has been flavored with spinach puree and colored with the vibrant green of this nutritious vegetable. This addition not only adds a beautiful color to the pasta, but it also adds a subtle flavor that pairs nicely with cream and butter sauces. The deep green color of this pasta is particularly eye catching, making it a great choice if you’re looking to impress guests.
Casarecce is a truly unique pasta, as each version has its own distinct flavor and texture. Whether you prefer something classic or something a bit more adventurous, this type of pasta is sure to please. With its versatile shape and flavors, it’s easy to see why Casarecce has become a favorite amongst food lovers everywhere.