Frederic Melton
Tortellini is a type of Italian pasta, meaning tiny cakes in Italian. They are small, round dumplings filled with a combination of soft cheeses and other ingredients. The most popular cheeses used in tortellini are ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella, but other cheeses such as mascarpone, Pecorino Romano, and Asiago are also used. The filling may also include vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms, meats such as pepperoni or prosciutto, and seasonings like nutmeg and parsley. The dough for the pasta is typically made with flour and eggs, although some recipes also include water, salt, and olive oil.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of cheeses used | 4-5 |
| Most popular cheeses used | Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Asiago |
| Other ingredients | Spinach, Nutmeg, Parsley, Seasoning, Italian seasoning, Eggs, Flour, Salt, Olive oil, Water |
| Dough preparation time | 30 minutes |
| Boiling time | 2-3 minutes or until they float |
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What You'll Learn
Ricotta, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano
Tortellini is a type of pasta that is often filled with cheese, among other ingredients. While there are many different types of cheese that can be used in tortellini, three of the most popular are ricotta, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano.
Ricotta is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavour. It is made from whey left over from the production of other cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone. When used in tortellini, ricotta is often combined with other cheeses and ingredients to create a thick, creamy filling. It is important to drain the ricotta cheese before using it, or the filling may become watery.
Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese with a strong, nutty flavour. It is produced in the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy and is made from cow's milk that has been skimmed of its cream. Parmesan is a popular choice for tortellini because of its distinct flavour and texture, which can add a salty, savoury note to the dish.
Pecorino Romano is a sheep's milk cheese that originates from Italy. It has a sharp, salty flavour and a firm texture. Pecorino Romano is often used in tortellini in combination with other cheeses, such as ricotta or Parmesan. It adds a distinct flavour and can also help to bind the filling together.
When making tortellini with these cheeses, it is important to create a thin pasta dough that can be easily shaped and filled. The filling should be a thick, creamy mixture with no lumps. A teaspoon of the filling is typically enough for one tortellini, as overfilling can cause the pasta to break apart during cooking. The tortellini are then boiled for a short time, usually just a few minutes, until they float to the surface.
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Mozzarella
One popular method for preparing tortellini with mozzarella involves creating a five-cheese filling. This filling typically includes mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and two other cheeses of the chef's choice, such as pecorino romano or asiago. By combining multiple cheeses, a complex and decadent flavour profile is achieved.
To make tortellini with mozzarella, one must first prepare the cheese filling by mixing the cheeses together with Italian seasoning. This filling is then encased in the fresh pasta dough, which is carefully shaped and sealed to form the distinctive tortellini shape. The tortellini is then boiled for a brief period, typically around 2-3 minutes, before being served with a sauce of one's choice.
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Mascarpone
To prepare the mascarpone tortellini, start by cooking the tortellini according to the package directions. In a separate pan, sauté garlic, shallot, and red pepper flakes for about 60 seconds. Then, add the red sauce, cream, and mascarpone, and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until a creamy sauce forms. Drain the cooked tortellini, reserving a small amount of the pasta water. Combine the tortellini with the sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious, and comforting meal. It pairs well with a light salad, creating a simple yet satisfying dinner. With its ease of preparation and short cooking time, mascarpone tortellini is a convenient option for those seeking a tasty and indulgent meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Asiago
When used in tortellini, Asiago cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavour to the filling. It can be combined with other cheeses, such as ricotta or mozzarella, to create a creamy and cheesy filling. The tortellini can then be boiled and served with a sauce of your choice, such as a tangy marinara or a rich alfredo.
To make the tortellini dough, you will need flour, salt, water, and, in some cases, olive oil and eggs. The dough should be soft, thin, and smooth, with a tender and springy texture. The filling for the tortellini is typically made by combining cheeses and seasonings, creating a creamy and cheesy mixture.
When forming the tortellini, it is important to ensure that the dough is thin and that the filling is evenly distributed. The tortellini can be shaped by cutting circular pieces of dough, placing the filling in the centre, and folding and pinching the seams together. This creates the signature tortellini shape, which is similar to a dumpling.
Once the tortellini are formed, they can be boiled for 2-3 minutes or until they float. They can then be served with a sauce, such as a vodka sauce or a tomato-based sauce. Asiago cheese can be a delicious addition to tortellini, adding a sharp and tangy flavour to the creamy and cheesy filling.
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Spinach and other fillings
Tortellini is a versatile pasta that can be filled with various ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. While traditionally, tortellini is stuffed with meat, it has become increasingly common to use other fillings, such as spinach. Spinach tortellini is a tasty option for vegetarians and those looking for a healthier alternative to meat-filled pasta. The spinach filling adds a nutritious boost to the dish, providing essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.
In addition to spinach, other vegetarian fillings can be used to create delicious tortellini dishes. For example, cheese tortellini is a popular choice, offering a creamy and indulgent option. The cheese filling can be made with a variety of cheeses, such as ricotta, Parmesan, cream cheese, or a combination of cheeses for added flavour and texture. This type of tortellini is versatile and can be paired with various sauces, including creamy tomato, pesto, or garlic butter.
For those who enjoy more robust flavours, mushroom tortellini is an excellent option. Mushrooms provide a savoury and earthy taste that complements the pasta perfectly. They can be used alone or combined with other ingredients, such as mascarpone cheese, to create a creamy and flavourful filling. Mushroom tortellini goes well with a variety of sauces, including creamy sauces, pesto, or a simple butter and herb sauce.
Beyond spinach, cheese, and mushrooms, there are even more creative tortellini fillings to explore. For a heartier option, ground beef or Italian sausage can be used as a filling, adding protein and a savoury flavour to the dish. These fillings pair well with creamy sauces, marinara sauce, or even browned butter for a unique twist. For those who enjoy a mix of sweet and savoury, butternut squash or pumpkin tortellini is a seasonal treat. The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by herbs and spices, creating a unique and comforting dish.
Lastly, for those with more adventurous palates, there are tortellini fillings that incorporate global flavours and unique ingredients. For example, tortellini filled with chicken tikka masala offers a fusion of Indian spices and creaminess from the tomato-based sauce. Alternatively, crab-filled tortellini showcases the delicate sweetness of crab meat, often paired with a light butter sauce or a touch of lemon to enhance the seafood flavour. No matter the filling, tortellini is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary preference.
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Frequently asked questions
The most popular types of cheeses used in tortellini are ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. Other cheeses such as mascarpone, pecorino romano, asiago, and nutmeg are also used.
Tortellini is Italian for "tiny cakes." They are small pasta nuggets filled with a combination of fresh cheese, herbs, and seasonings.
The dough of the tortellini is made of flour, salt, water, and sometimes, eggs.
First, prepare the cheese filling by combining all the cheeses in a bowl. Then, make the tortellini dough by adding flour, salt, and water to form a loose ball. Transfer the dough to a table and knead it for about 5 minutes. Cut the dough into circles, place the cheese mixture in the center of each circle, and fold it over to form the tortellini shape.
Boil the tortellini for about 2-3 minutes or until they start to float.
