Anelli Pasta: A Versatile Ingredient for Soups, Salads, and Baked Dishes

An Overview of Anelli Pasta

Anelli pasta, meaning "little rings" in Italian, is a versatile type of pasta shaped like small, thin hoops. Originating from Sicily, Italy, anelletti are typically made from durum wheat flour and water and are commonly used in soups, salads, and oven-baked dishes.

Culinary Uses of Anelli Pasta

Due to their small size and delicate texture, anelletti are an excellent choice for soups and salads. The rings absorb flavors well, making them a great addition to hearty soups and light, refreshing salads. Furthermore, anelletti can be used in baked pasta dishes, where they soak up the sauce and contribute a satisfying texture.

An Authentic Anellini al Forno Recipe

Anellini al forno is a classic baked pasta dish from Sicily. This recipe combines anelletti pasta with a flavorful ragù made from pork, fennel, and tomatoes. The dish is topped with grated cheese and baked until golden brown.

Ingredients:

* 1 pound anelletti pasta * 1 pound ground pork * 1 medium onion, chopped * 1 medium fennel bulb, chopped * 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes * 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce * 1 teaspoon dried oregano * 1 teaspoon dried basil * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese * Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). 2. Cook the anelletti pasta according to the package directions. 3. In a large skillet, brown the ground pork over medium heat. Remove the pork from the skillet and drain off the excess fat. 4. Add the onion and fennel to the skillet and cook until softened. 5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. 6. Add the cooked pork and cooked anelletti pasta to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. 8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. 9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy this delicious and authentic Sicilian dish!