Tortellini is an Italian stuffed pasta which is similar to a ravioli except that it is ring shaped. It often contains meat such as prosciutto or minced pork, although some variations contain cheese. They can be served in soups or as pasta dishes. Here is a simple recipe that you can enjoy as is or build upon. Enjoy!
Serves 4
Ingredients:
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 tablespoon olive oil
4Â eggs
1 tablespoon butter
400g ground beef
1Â small onion, finely chopped,
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Place the flour in a bowl and form a well at the center. Put the eggs and olive oil at the center. Mix well.
Gradually add water into the bowl while mixing until you form a ball. If it becomes too dry add some water, but if it is wet add some flour. After, place the ball of dough on a floured surface and knead it until it becomes smooth. Cover it with a piece of cloth and let it stand for 20 minutes.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions for 1-2 minutes until the fragrant and the onions are soft. Add the beef and cook it for 3-5 minutes or until the meat is cooked and browned. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese.
Divide the dough into two and roll it out until it is 1/8th of an inch. Cut the dough into 1 1/2 inch squares. Put half a teaspoon of beef filling at the center of the pasta square. Fold it in half to form a triangle. Press the edges together and then roll the ends to form a ring. Set it on a tray. Repeat this for the remaining ingredients. Let the tortellini stand for 20-30 minutes or until it becomes dry.
While waiting for the tortellini to dry up. Half fill a large pot with water. Place it over high heat and bring it to a boil. Drop a few pieces of tortellini into the pot. So not overcrowd them. Cook the meat filled pasta for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Remove the cooked tortellini with a slotted spoon and place them on a large bowl. Add the butter and gently toss until the tortellinis are coated. Season it with salt and pepper if desired. Divide it into serving plates and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Photo Courtesy Of: Â andrewmalone