How do they get the holes in macaroni noodles?

Here's how it works:

1. Dough preparation: Flour, water, and other ingredients are mixed to form a dough.

2. Extrusion: The dough is forced through a die, which is a metal plate with a specific shape. The die has holes of different sizes and shapes, determining the final pasta shape.

3. Cutting: The extruded dough is cut into the desired length, creating individual noodles.

The holes are created by the die during the extrusion process. They serve several purposes:

* Faster cooking: The holes allow the water to circulate more freely, resulting in faster cooking times.

* Better sauce absorption: The holes provide more surface area for the sauce to cling to, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

* Lightness and texture: The holes help create a lighter and airier texture.

So, the holes in macaroni aren't just for looks, they actually play a crucial role in both the cooking process and the final taste of the pasta.