De Cecco
De Cecco Farfalle No. 93
What it is
Farfalle, meaning 'butterflies' in Italian, are a type of pasta characterized by their distinctive bow-tie shape. This particular variety, De Cecco Farfalle No. 93, is made from durum wheat semolina, a common and traditional choice for pasta production. The shape is created by pinching a rectangular piece of pasta dough in the center, resulting in ruffled edges and a thicker middle that tapers to thinner 'wings'. This design helps the pasta hold sauces well.
How people cook with it
Farfalle are versatile and can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes.
- In pasta salads
- With light cream sauces
- Tossed with vegetables
- In baked pasta dishes
To cook farfalle, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving some of the cooking water. You can then toss it with your favorite sauce, add it to a soup, or chill it for a pasta salad. The cooking time will vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other pasta shapes like spaghetti or penne, farfalle's unique shape offers a different texture and mouthfeel. The pinched center cooks slightly firmer than the thinner edges, providing a pleasing contrast. Its larger surface area also makes it excellent for capturing chunkier sauces and ingredients.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a classic pasta shape that pairs well with many ingredients will appreciate this product.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused dry farfalle in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to keep out pests.