Tuscan Pici is a traditional Italian pasta that hails from the beautiful region of Tuscany. Characterized by its thick, handrolled shape, Pici is similar to spaghetti but boasts a rustic charm and a delightful chewiness that makes it unique. The simplicity of making Pici from scratch is part of its allure, and you can easily try your hand at crafting this delicious dish at home.
What is Pici?
Pici is a type of fresh pasta made from just a few simple ingredients: flour, water, and salt. It’s typically shaped by hand, allowing for a personal touch that connects the cook to this ageold culinary tradition. Pici is often enjoyed with a variety of sauces, from a classic garlic and olive oil dressing to a rich meat ragu, making it versatile for many flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Pici at home, gather the following ingredients:
Allpurpose flour (about 2 cups)
Water (around ¾ cup; adjust as needed)
Salt (1 teaspoon)
This simple ingredient list means that you can whip up Pici even on a busy weeknight.
Making Your Pici
1. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add water until a shaggy dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. Knead the dough for about 510 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
3. Shape the Pici: Once your dough has rested, divide it into smaller pieces. Take one piece and roll it into a long rope about the thickness of a pencil. Keep dusting with flour as needed to prevent sticking. Repeat with the remaining pieces.
4. Cook the Pici: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pici for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are al dente. Fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta!
5. Dress it Up: Toss your Pici with your favorite sauce. A simple sauce made of sautéed garlic in olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes is a classic choice. Don’t forget to finish with freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese!
Variations to Try
Herbed Pici: Incorporate finely chopped herbs like basil or rosemary into the dough for an aromatic twist.
Pici with Ragu: A hearty meat sauce pairs beautifully with Pici. Simmer ground meat with tomatoes and herbs for a comforting dish.
Pici Cacio e Pepe: Toss the cooked Pici with freshly cracked black pepper and a generous portion of Pecorino Romano for a simple yet flavorful meal.
Embrace the art of pastamaking with Tuscan Pici. This dish not only brings the taste of Tuscany to your kitchen but also provides a wonderful opportunity for creativity and culinary exploration. Making pasta from scratch is not just about the end product; it’s about the experience, the connection to tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Enjoy your homemade Italian adventure!