On a recent shopping trip with some friends I casually mentioned that I was looking for a pasta machine and pasta drying rack. “Why would you make homemade pasta when it is so cheap and easy to buy,” a friend replied. “Because I have never made homemade pasta and I got a coupon,” was my response.
After a team search through the mega home store I finally found a pasta machine but the pasta rack had to be purchased on line later that day. A few days later I rolled up my shelves and got to work.
The basic recipe for homemade pasta is flour, eggs and salt. These simple ingredients come together effortlessly. Well, almost. My first attempt yielded a very dry dough, too dry for pasta. It landed in the can. My second try was spot on. The trick is to start slow and add a little flour at a time and stop when the dough comes together nicely. Let it rest for 20 minutes and roll it through the pasta machine. If you do not have a pasta machine a rolling pin works fine. It takes a little finesse but that is half the fun. Dry the pasta for about 10 minutes or so. Boil it in salted water for 3 to 5 minutes. Remember this is fresh pasta, cooking time is less.
Yes, boxed pasta is cheap and easy but the process of make and eating my own homemade pasta was very satisfying. It was worth it and I recommend it. Who knew something so simple could be so rewarding and tasty.
March is National Noodle Month
