Rustichella D'Abruzzo Orechiette Del Prete

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Rustichella D’Abruzzo Orechiette Del Prete provides a sensory journey through the heart of Italian cuisine, capturing the essence of the Abruzzo region’s agricultural bounty. Made with heirloom durum wheat semolina like Senatore Cappelli, this pasta exudes a subtle, earthy nuttiness intensified upon cooking. The distinctive wheat aroma, a testament to its artisanal production methods, intertwines with deeper, robust flavors. Slight sweetness and malty undertones emerge, balanced by a gentle salinity from the cooking process. Each piece boasts a firm, chewy texture, essential for holding sauces securely, which is achieved through bronze die extrusion, imparting a rough, sauce-gripping surface. The ear-like shape, a nod to its name ‘orecchiette’, enhances both the visual and gustatory experiences, capturing and delivering flavors with authenticity. This complex interplay of aromas, textures, and flavors underlines its position as a gourmet staple, perfect for elevating the simplest to the most complex of sauces.

Pairings & Suggestions

Classic Pairings: Accompany Rustichella D’Abruzzo Orechiette Del Prete with savory sauces like broccoli rabe and Italian sausage, bringing out its robust texture.

Tomato-Based Sauces: Ideal with a garlicky tomato sauce, accentuating the pasta’s nutty undertones.

Hearty Pairings: Matches well with meaty sauces such as Bolognese, utilizing its firm texture to balance rich flavors.

Vegetarian Options: Pair with roasted vegetables and olive oil, or a creamy pistachio and Parmesan mix for elegant dining.

Refreshing Pairings: Consider a room-temperature pasta salad with fresh cherry tomatoes, balsamic, and mozzarella for a cooler dish.

The Fascinating Legacy of Orechiette

The story of Rustichella D’Abruzzo Orechiette Del Prete is deeply intertwined with the history and culture of Italy’s Abruzzo region. Established in 1924 by Gaetano Sergiacomo, Rustichella D’Abruzzo has become a beacon of traditional Italian pasta-making, exemplifying the rich culinary heritage of this region. Situated at the base of the Apennine Mountains and bordered by the Adriatic Sea, Abruzzo’s unique terroir and agricultural practices significantly influence the quality and character of its pasta. The rugged landscape supports the cultivation of heirloom durum wheat varieties, such as Senatore Cappelli, which Rustichella D’Abruzzo employs to maintain their pasta’s distinctive taste and texture. This dedication to tradition is amplified by the artisanal methods used, including bronze die extrusion and slow drying, preserving the authentic flavors and textures passed down through generations. Each piece of Orechiette Del Prete is a tribute to this legacy, capturing the essence of rural Italian life and artisanal craftsmanship. This narrative enriches the dining experience, offering a slice of Italian culture that stimulates conversation.

Storage Instructions

Store Rustichella D’Abruzzo Orechiette Del Prete in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, transfer to an airtight container to maintain freshness.