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Purrozze

Purrozze is a classic Italian baked pasta dish featuring ricotta and spinach stuffed pasta shells layered with rich tomato sauce, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs for a hearty meal.

Difficulty
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
Prep Time
50 min
Cost
Cost
Medium
Calories
480
Protein
18g
Sugar
6g
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Purrozze

Introduction

Purrozze, a traditional Italian dish, hails from the rustic kitchens of Southern Italy. Often prepared for special family gatherings, this delectable stuffed pasta dish embodies the warmth and rich flavors of the region's cuisine. Historically, purrozze was crafted as a way of utilizing leftover ingredients, making it both an economical and delicious meal. Its name is derived from the term 'purro,' meaning filling, which celebrates the abundant stuffing within these delightful pasta parcels.

Ingredients

Preparation

Making the Pasta

To make the pasta for purrozze, start by mixing 2 cups of flour with three eggs. Stir together until a dough forms. Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out the dough later.

Preparing the Filling

While your pasta dough is resting, prepare the filling. Sauté a chopped onion and two minced cloves of garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add two cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before combining with one cup of ricotta, half a cup of grated parmesan, one beaten egg, a pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Purrozze

Once the filling is ready, roll out the pasta dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a circular cutter or glass, cut out rounds from the dough. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each round. Fold the dough over and press the edges together to seal securely. Place your filled purrozze on a floured tray while you prepare the rest.

Cooking the Purrozze

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the purrozze in batches to avoid overcrowding, and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them directly into your tomato sauce.

Preparing the Sauce

To complement the purrozze, prepare a simple tomato sauce. In a saucepan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil, add a chopped onion, and cook until translucent. Stir in two cloves of minced garlic, cooking for another minute. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and add a handful of fresh basil. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Enjoying Purrozze

Finally, garnish the purrozze with an additional sprinkle of grated parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves before serving. Pair with a crisp white wine and a side salad for a complete meal experience. This dish, rich in history and flavor, is perfect for savoring slowly, perhaps shared amongst friends and family.

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