Maccheroni alla Chitarra are originally from Abruzzo and have an unusual long shape with a square cross section.
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 Maccheroni alla Chitarra is a tomato sauce enriched with veal meatballs measuring about one centimetre across, known as "pallottelle".
Maccheroni alla Chitarra are also excellent with different types of meat gravy, with sauces made from tomatoes and aubergines, or fish.
Available in 500g pack.s
Mezzi Tufoli are a shorter version of the classic Tufoli and are part of the short, straight cut, smooth pasta family.
It is not certain where this type of pasta originates from and there are lots of local variations on the name for it: Maniche (sleeves), Gigantoni (giants), Occhi di elefante (elephant's eyes), Elefante (elephant), Canneroni grandi (big canneroni), and Occhi di bove (bull's eye).
The lack of ridges is compensated for by a surprising softness which makes it exceptionally delicate on the palate. It is a delicate and sophisticated pasta which brings out the best in aromas, flavours and fragrance.
The condiments recommended for Mezzi Tufoli are meat ragù, but also sauces made from vegetables with mushrooms, artichokes and aubergines. This pasta also goes very well with sauces made from pulses such as beans, peas, chickpeas, broad beans and lentils.
Available in 500g pack.s