Penne
From its inception in southern Italy during the 16th century, Penne has seen its share of iterative upgrades and tweaks, becoming an incredibly popular comfort food around the globe. There's something undeniably alluring about the way the tubes soak up rich sauces, while their hearty texture stands in contrast to the creamy bases.
Though Penne is a versatile dish, allowing chefs to concoct numerous delectable recipes, it's important to get the basics right. Thoroughly cooked Penne should be firm yet yielding to the bite, resembling the perfect al dente consistency. To achieve this, adding salt to the boiling water is paramount prior to adding the pasta itself.
In terms of flavors, it's tempting to opt for a cheese-centric sauce as it pairs perfectly with the pasta. But there are plenty of interesting recipes that showcase Penne's incredible versatility. The Afeltra family from Salerno, Italy created the classic Puttanesca sauce, a piquant mix of olives, tomatoes, capers, and anchovies. For those looking for a healthier option, a simple olive oil, garlic, and basil combination is an excellent choice.
Though Penne may have a traditional aura surrounding it, don't let that limit your creativity in the kitchen. Experiment with different ingredients and sauces to find your perfect flavor pallet. And if you're ever stuck for inspiration, just remember: Penne always rises to the meal.
Penne recipes
Amazing Penne recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Penne
The humble dish of Penne has quite a fascinating backstory. Said to have been first created sometime in the late 19th century, the origins of this beloved pasta may be somewhat murky, yet they remain entrenched in Italian tradition and culture.
It was in the province of Campania, formerly known as the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, that the precursor to this delectable dish first came to be. Legend has it that a creative yet impoverished miller's wife, desperate to feed her family, cut sheets of dough into short, stubby cylinders and provided each of her children with one. Thus, what we now call penne were born.
But there is more to the story – quite a bit more. You see, this region already had a long-standing reputation for producing quality durum wheat semolina, which was then rolled into the distinctive shape mentioned previously. This particular shape, according to one popular hypothesis, was inspired by the quill pens used by writers of the day. It was in this very area which the famous Italian poet Virgil lived, and therefore it would make sense that his likeness, or tools he used, would be at the forefront of local food production.
Thus, we can reasonably infer that the popularization of this tasty dish was, in fact, a tribute to a cultural icon from the same region. While not everyone who eats Penne today may recognize it, true aficionados will certainly appreciate the nod to the past, as well as the deliciousness of the culinary creation itself.
As the Penne dish continues to evolve and expand in popularity, its roots in both poverty-filled desperation and artistic homage remain undiminished. To enjoy a plate of Penne is to enjoy a bit of history and culture crafted over time into a tasty dish.
Types of Penne
Penne – like a pasta phoenix, it is a dish that always rises from the ashes, one that continues to surprise with its many nuances of flavor and texture. It's a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways and enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults alike.
Unlike other types of pasta, penne offers a unique shape and structure. Its cylindrical shape makes it ideally suited for sauces with heavier consistencies, such as ragu or pesto, that may not easily coat thinner pastas. Its ridges create a nice bite and texture when cooked properly.
Penne dishes can also be cooked in a variety of ways, from boiled al dente to baked in cheesy casseroles. Baked penne dishes typically have a thicker layer of cheese and sauce that covers each piece of pasta, allowing for a more flavorful dish, while boiled penne tends to have a lighter sauce, allowing the taste of the pasta to shine through.
For those looking for a more interesting twist on the classic dish, Penne alla vodka is a great option. This Italian favorite features a creamy tomato sauce infused with vodka, giving the pasta a unique slightly sweet and peppery flavor. Other creative interpretations include penne alla primavera, loaded with vegetables, or a smoky, garlic-infused version of penne arrabiata.
No matter what type of penne dish you choose, this classic pasta is sure to delight. Whether enjoying it boiled al dente, baked in a cheesy casserole, or infusing it with a unique flavor like vodka, penne will never let you down. So, next time you’re looking for a delicious meal to make for your family, remember that Penne is always a great choice.