Chitarrina Abruzzese is a typical regional speciality with an original long shape and a square cross section which is smaller that the classic Maccheroni alla Chitarra.
Historically, the pasta was cut with a special tool called a "chitarra" (guitar), consisting of a wooden frame over which thin, steel wires were stretched. The pasta, which was not excessively thin (about the thickness between one wire and another) was placed on the wires and then cut by pressing on it with a special little rolling pin.
This type of pasta is typically eaten with lamb ragù. In certain areas of Abruzzo, the traditional condiment for Chitarrina Abruzzese is a tomato sauce enriched with veal meatballs measuring about one centimetre across, known as "pallottelle".
The Chitarra Abruzzese is also excellent with different types of meat gravy, with sauces made from tomatoes and aubergines, or fish.
Available in 500g and 250g packs
Pasta shapes that resemble small animals found in the garden or in fields are not uncommon.
Sorpresine (little surprises) look like tiny mushrooms and are fun especially for children who associate them with the animal kingdom.
Sorpresine are best used in broths, or in vegetable or bean soups. This pasta is also excellent for preparing very delicate pasta dishes with light tomato and basil sauces.
Available in 250g pack.s