Homemade noodles

Homemade Noodles Recipe: A Fire-Free Delicacy

Welcome to the world of cooking, where every ingredient has a story and every recipe becomes an unforgettable memory! Today, I will guide you step by step in making delicious homemade noodles, perfect for accompanying a comforting soup or broth. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for warm days when you don't want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Working time: 30 minutes
Drying time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g type 000 flour
- 3 fresh eggs
- 1 pinch of salt

Ingredient notes:
Type 000 flour is ideal for pasta as it has a lower protein content, making the noodles softer and more delicate. Fresh eggs are essential as they add wonderful flavor and pleasant texture. Make sure to have the ingredients at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough.

The story behind the recipe:
Homemade noodles are an old tradition, prepared in many cultures as a symbol of hospitality and comfort. This type of pasta is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dishes, from soups to salads. In simpler times, people made their noodles at home, giving them a personal touch filled with love. Today, I invite you to bring this tradition back into your kitchen.

Making the noodles:
1. Start by placing the flour on a clean work surface. Form a mound of flour and create a well in the center, like a small volcano.
2. Crack the eggs into the well and add a pinch of salt. Using a fork, begin to mix the eggs into the flour, gradually incorporating flour from the edges.
3. Once you have a smooth mixture, start kneading the dough with your hands. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes firm and slightly elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Rolling technique:
5. After the dough has rested, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Take one portion and keep the others covered to prevent them from drying out.
6. Using a rolling pin, start rolling the dough into a thin sheet. If you have a pasta machine, feel free to use it! Passing the dough through the machine will make it fine and even. Start with the largest setting and pass the dough through several times to thin it out, then adjust the settings to achieve the desired thickness.
7. Once you have a thin sheet, you can cut it into strips of your desired size. The noodles can be left to dry on a pasta drying rack or simply placed on a floured tray.

Drying and storage:
8. Let the noodles dry for 30 minutes. This step is important as it will prevent them from sticking together when you use them later. Once dried, store them in a paper bag in a cool, dry place, where they will stay fresh for a few days.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour? Yes, but the texture will be different, and the noodles will have a more robust flavor.
- What can I do with the noodles after I make them? They are excellent for soups, broths, or even salads. You can enjoy them with a tomato sauce, pesto, or quickly sauté them for a crunchy texture.
- How long can homemade noodles be stored? Keep them in the paper bag for 3-4 days, or you can freeze them for later use.

Serving suggestions:
Homemade noodles pair perfectly with a rustic chicken soup or vegetable broth. For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a drizzle of olive oil on top. Additionally, grated cheese on top will add a savory touch to the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
These noodles are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for an active day. The eggs add quality protein and essential vitamins, while type 000 flour is easier to digest, making it a good choice for a comforting meal.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add some ingredients to the dough, such as cooked and pureed spinach for green noodles or beetroot for a pink hue. These variations not only add color but also a distinct flavor.

Now that you know how to make homemade noodles, feel free to explore additional recipes, such as chicken soup or a fresh vegetable pasta salad. Cooking becomes an adventure when you have the courage to experiment and create! So, prepare your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!