Giant dumplings filled with pork

Giant Pacherri Stuffed with Pork: A Savory and Comforting Recipe

If you are looking for a recipe that combines comfort with culinary excellence, then giant pacherri stuffed with pork are the perfect choice. These enormous pasta tubes, filled with a delicious mix of meat and vegetables, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce, are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a visual feast. Moreover, the recipe is easy to make, and each bite will bring you joy. Let’s get started!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the Rag Sauce:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 150 ml olive oil
- 500 g ground pork
- 125 ml white wine
- 300 ml tomato juice
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 50 g butter
- 50 g flour
- 500 ml warm milk
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:
- 12 giant pacherri pasta
- 1 liter water
- A pinch of salt
- 125 g grated cheese

A Brief History

Stuffed pasta recipes are an integral part of traditional gastronomy, having evolved over the centuries. Whether filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, these dishes share some common characteristics: they are hearty, rich in flavors, and bring a sense of warmth and comfort. Pacherri, a large and meaty pasta shape, is perfect for stuffing and, when combined with classic sauces, becomes an excellent choice for family meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Rag Sauce

1. Start by peeling the onion, then wash it and chop it finely. Do the same with the carrot, and slice the celery into rounds.
2. In a wok or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft.
3. Add the ground pork, sprinkling a little salt on top. Stir continuously until the meat loses its pink color and the liquid has evaporated. This step is essential for achieving a good texture and concentrated flavor.
4. Add the white wine and black pepper. Let it simmer until the wine has completely evaporated.
5. Finally, add the tomato juice. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This time will allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

Step 2: Preparing the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Begin adding the warm milk gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue mixing until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
3. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Then, remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Boiling the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water with a pinch of salt to a boil. Add the pacherri pasta and boil for 7-8 minutes until al dente. It’s important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of Béchamel sauce on the bottom.
3. Place the pacherri pasta upright, filling them with the Rag sauce using a spoon or a piping bag to facilitate the filling.
4. After filling all the pasta, pour the remaining Rag sauce between them so that each piece is well covered.
5. Pour the remaining Béchamel sauce on top and evenly sprinkle the grated cheese.
6. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serving

Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. These stuffed pacherri can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables to complete the meal.

Practical Tips

- If you want a vegetarian version, replace the ground pork with finely chopped mushrooms and add ricotta cheese to the vegetable mix.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add herbs like oregano or basil to the Rag sauce.
- Make sure the Béchamel sauce remains fluid; if it thickens, add a little milk or water and mix well.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of stuffed pasta, such as cannelloni or tortellini, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
Serve a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits

These pacherri are rich in protein due to the pork and provide vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The Béchamel sauce adds a source of calcium from the milk, and the pasta provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day. This recipe is an excellent choice for a hearty and comforting meal.

Explore this delicious recipe for stuffed pacherri with pork and enjoy every step of the cooking process! It’s a culinary experience that will bring you together with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories around the table. Enjoy your meal!