Umbricelli al tartufo
Umbricelli pasta with truffle
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Umbricelli, a thick, hand-rolled pasta, originates from Umbria, a region known for its simple, rustic cuisine. Its history is intertwined with peasant traditions where resourcefulness and utilizing local ingredients were paramount. Truffles, also abundant in Umbria, have been prized since Roman times, adding a touch of luxury to otherwise humble dishes.
Umbricelli al tartufo represents a fusion of rustic simplicity and refined elegance. It embodies the Umbrian tradition of using high-quality, local ingredients to create dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful. The presence of truffle elevates the dish, reflecting the region's appreciation for its natural bounty.
Umbrian Regional Cuisine
Umbria is known for its simple, hearty cuisine emphasizing fresh, local ingredients like legumes, grains, and cured meats. Umbricelli al tartufo showcases this focus on quality and regional specialties.
Truffle Hunting
Truffle hunting is a significant part of Umbrian culture. Skilled hunters with specially trained dogs search the forests for these prized fungi, often passing down their knowledge through generations.
Festivals and Celebrations
Truffles are often celebrated at food festivals and special events throughout Umbria, where Umbricelli al tartufo and other truffle-based dishes are featured prominently.
Umbricelli al tartufo boasts a rich, earthy, and intensely savory flavor profile. The simple pasta acts as a perfect canvas for the pungent and aromatic truffle.
The dominant flavor is, of course, the truffle. Black truffles (tartufo nero) are most commonly used and contribute an earthy, musky, and slightly garlicky aroma and taste. The pasta itself has a slightly chewy texture, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Olive oil, often infused with truffle oil, adds richness and enhances the truffle flavor. Garlic, if used sparingly, can complement the truffle without overpowering it. Parmesan cheese, while sometimes added, should be used judiciously to avoid masking the delicate truffle notes. White truffles (tartufo bianco) offer a more intense and pungent experience, often paired with just butter or oil to allow the truffle's delicate flavor to shine. Salt and pepper are essential for balancing the flavors.
Freshness is Key
Use the freshest possible ingredients, particularly the truffles. The aroma and flavor of fresh truffles are far superior to those of preserved or processed truffle products.
Pasta Preparation
If making Umbricelli from scratch, ensure the dough is properly kneaded and rested to achieve the desired chewy texture. Cook the pasta al dente to retain its shape and bite.
Truffle Application
For maximum flavor, shave the truffles directly onto the cooked pasta just before serving. The heat from the pasta will release the truffle's aroma and flavor.
Cheese Choice
If using Parmesan, choose a high-quality aged Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it finely. Use sparingly, so it complements rather than overwhelms the truffle flavor.
Simplicity Reigns
Avoid adding too many ingredients. The beauty of Umbricelli al tartufo lies in its simplicity. Focus on showcasing the truffle's exquisite flavor.
Explore additional Italian dishes and restaurants
Explore ItalianDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Perugia.
Explore PerugiaLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Italy.
Explore Italy