Homemade noodles

Homemade Noodles Recipe: A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Drying time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever wondered how homemade noodles are made? This simple and quick recipe will give you the chance to enjoy the authentic taste of noodles by preparing them yourself in the comfort of your kitchen. Using just a few essential ingredients, you will discover the magic of traditional cooking and add a personal touch to your meals. Homemade noodles are versatile and can be used in various dishes, from comforting soups to delicious main courses.

Ingredients:

- 1 large egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 ml water (approximately, adjust according to desired consistency)
- Whole grain rye flour (approximately 300-350 g, as needed to obtain a firm dough)

A Brief History of Noodles

Noodles, a staple food in many culinary cultures, have a long history, with deep roots in the gastronomic traditions of many peoples. This homemade noodle recipe is a wonderful way to connect with the past by bringing the simplest and most natural ingredients into the present. Whether you serve them with rich sauces, in soups, or with fresh vegetables, homemade noodles are always an inspired choice.

Step by Step: Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, crack the egg and add a pinch of salt. Beat the egg with a fork until homogeneous. Gradually add water, mixing continuously.
Practical tips: If you prefer, you can use warm water, which will help achieve a softer dough.

2. Adding the Flour
Start incorporating the whole grain rye flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture becomes a firm and non-sticky dough. When the dough becomes harder to mix with the fork, use your hands to knead it.
Tricks: Rye flour gives a distinct flavor and a denser texture than white flour, but you can experiment with other types of flour, such as durum wheat flour, for a different consistency.

3. Kneading the Dough
Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
Useful details: If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour; if it is too dry, you can drizzle a few drops of water.

4. Forming the Sheets
Divide the dough into two or three equal parts. Use a rolling pin to roll each piece into a thin sheet.
Suggestion: You can use a pasta machine, if you have one, to achieve uniform sheets.

5. Cutting the Noodles
Once you have rolled out all the sheets, cut them into strips about 1-2 cm wide, depending on the desired thickness.
Variations: You can create thinner noodles for soups or thicker strips for dishes like lasagna.

6. Drying the Noodles
Place the noodle strips on a rack or tray so they do not overlap, and let them dry for 30 minutes.
Personal note: If you have a special drying rack, use it! This will allow air circulation and prevent sticking.

7. Boiling the Noodles
Once dried, the noodles can be used immediately or stored for later. Boil them in salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until al dente.
Final thoughts: Add them to soups or serve them with a favorite sauce, such as tomato basil sauce or cream and mushroom sauce.

Delicious Combinations

Homemade noodles pair perfectly with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Here are some suggestions:

- Tomato basil sauce: A classic choice, rich in flavors.
- Creamy mushroom sauce: A comforting and creamy combination.
- Grilled vegetables: A healthy and fresh option.
- Chicken or beef: Cook the meat with aromatic spices for a savory main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use white flour instead of rye flour?
Yes, white flour can be an alternative, but the taste and texture will be different.

2. How can I store leftover noodles?
Dried noodles can be stored in an airtight container in a dry place for a few weeks.

3. How long can the noodles be stored?
If dried properly, noodles can be stored for up to 1-2 months.

Nutritional Benefits

- Rye flour: A good source of fiber and protein, contributing to healthy digestion.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12.

Calories

A serving of homemade noodles (approximately 100 g) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Personal Note

For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs to the dough or experiment with different spices. Also, feel free to play with shapes: noodles don’t always have to be strips; you can also try shapes like tagliatelle or fettuccine.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! I wish you much success and, above all, joy in the kitchen!