How To Know When Your Pasta Is Al Dente

Rustic Italian cuisine is simply, we have to say, a gift to the world, and while homemade pasta is still just egg and flour, the dizzying array of shapes one can turn it into make it suitable as a filling main or as the element that adds heft to a hearty soup. For the former, we think rigatoni's size and springiness give it the top spot and the latter, ditalini work wonders with a pasta fazool.  

Sometimes, it can be as simple as putting ingredients already in your pantry; other times, it can be as complex as making it from scratch, in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whichever recipe you decide to go for, whether it's a classic one or one you come up with on your own, one thing is for sure: a delicious pasta dish starts with this: perfectly cooked, al dente specimens

How to cook al dente pasta 

The phrase al dente translates to "to the tooth," meaning the pasta has a firm yet tender texture that is neither chalky nor grainy. When it's the opposite of al dente, Italians call it stracotto or overcooked, and that's what you want to avoid lest it all go to slop. The al dente texture elevates the eating experience because it ensures the pasta holds the integrity of its shape and can absorb the sauce. To reach this al dente perfection, Italians recommend taking out your dried pasta 1 to 2 minutes before the recommended cooking time printed on the pasta package. 

The simplest way to check is to test a piece about 2 to 3 minutes before the recommended cook time finishes. Another way is to take a piece of pasta and touch it; it shouldn't break easily, but rather feel firm and pliable. For shorter pasta like rigatoni, they should hold their shape well without being easily mashable. For fresh pasta, cook it for only 1 to 2 minutes, depending on the shape.

Cooking pasta to its al dente texture is crucial to a successful pasta dish. Perfecting this first stage of cooking makes the process much easier and more enjoyable. Use all sensory checks to ensure an al dente pasta, and most of all, enjoy your dish!

Recommended