Can you make pasta with semolina flour?

Yes, you can definitely make pasta with semolina flour! Semolina is actually the traditional flour used for making pasta, especially in Italy. It gives pasta its characteristic texture – firm, slightly rough, and able to hold sauces beautifully.

Here's a simple recipe for homemade semolina pasta:

Ingredients:

* 2 cups (250g) semolina flour

* 1 1/2 cups (350ml) warm water

* 1 teaspoon salt

* Olive oil (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the semolina flour and salt. Make a well in the center and gradually add the warm water, mixing with a fork.

2. Knead the dough: Once the ingredients are combined, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water. If it's too sticky, add more flour.

3. Rest the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.

4. Roll and cut: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece out on a lightly floured surface using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Start with a thicker setting on the machine and gradually decrease the thickness until you reach your desired thickness.

5. Cut the pasta: Once the pasta is rolled, you can cut it into your desired shapes using a pasta cutter, knife, or your hands. Some popular pasta shapes to make with semolina flour are:

* Spaghetti: Cut the rolled pasta into long strands.

* Fettuccine: Cut the rolled pasta into long, flat strips.

* Pappardelle: Cut the rolled pasta into wide, flat strips.

* Ravioli: Cut squares of rolled pasta and fill them with your favorite filling.

6. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions or until al dente.

7. Serve with your favorite sauce.

Tips:

* To prevent the dough from sticking to the work surface, lightly dust it with semolina flour.

* If you don't have a pasta machine, you can use a rolling pin to roll out the dough.

* Be careful not to overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite.

* You can store leftover pasta dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your homemade semolina pasta!