Homemade noodles

Homemade Noodle Recipe

Homemade noodles are a delicacy that brings back memories of moments spent in our grandparents' kitchens, where flavors intertwine with smiles and family stories. This simple yet traditional recipe will allow you to create these delicious noodles at home, perfect for adding to soups or serving with various sauces.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Drying time: 15-30 minutes (depending on humidity)
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3 eggs (preferably free-range for a richer taste)
- 300 g flour (use type 00 flour for a finer texture)
- A pinch of salt

1. Preparing the ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Free-range eggs have a more intense flavor, and type 00 flour gives a finer consistency to the noodles. If your eggs are smaller, adjust the amount of flour, adding gradually until you achieve a homogeneous dough.

2. Making the dough

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes fluffy. Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly. When the mixture becomes difficult to stir with a fork, use your hands to knead. Continue kneading until you obtain an elastic and homogeneous dough. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Forming dough balls

Once you have the perfect dough, form it into a ball. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent drying. Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is essential to allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.

4. Rolling out the dough

Divide the dough ball into smaller pieces, which you can roll out with a rolling pin or, for a more uniform result, with a noodle machine. If you choose to use a rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin sheet. Make sure to sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and on the dough to prevent sticking.

If using a noodle machine, start with the largest setting and gradually adjust to smaller sizes to achieve a thin sheet of dough. Here’s a secret: let the sheets dry a little between rolling, but don’t leave them too long, or they will crack when you cut them.

5. Cutting the noodles

Once you have the sheets of dough, it’s time to cut them. If using a noodle machine, use the cutting function to obtain perfectly uniform strips. If you prefer the traditional method, you can use a sharp knife to cut thin strips, about 5 mm wide.

6. Drying the noodles

After cutting, let the noodles dry slightly on a clean surface, covering them with a damp towel to prevent them from sticking together. You can use a string or a special rack to hang them. They can be used immediately in various dishes or dried completely and stored in an airtight container for another occasion.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a special flavor, you can incorporate fresh herbs or spices into the dough, such as basil or garlic.
- You can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but be careful, as it absorbs more water.
- Don’t worry if the dough becomes sticky; add a little flour, but don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with overly dry noodles.

Nutritional benefits:
These homemade noodles are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing energy, and the eggs add quality protein. Additionally, if you use whole wheat flour, you will benefit from fiber that aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of liquid.

2. How can I store the noodles?
Dried noodles can be stored in an airtight container for a few months. Fresh ones can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

3. What can I serve the noodles with?
These noodles are versatile! You can serve them with tomato sauces, creamy sauces, or in flavored soups. A delicious combination is with pesto sauce and sautéed vegetables.

Possible variations:
- Add spinach or beetroot to the dough to create colorful and nutrient-rich noodles.
- Experiment with different flavors, such as spices or citrus juices, to give your recipe a twist.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to present these homemade noodles to your loved ones. Create delicious memories and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!