What Kind of Pasta Is in Rome?
Rome, the capital city of Italy, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage. From mouthwatering pizzas to delectable gelato, Rome offers a wide array of delicious dishes. However, when it comes to pasta, Rome has its own distinct varieties that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Cacio e Pepe
A classic Roman pasta dish, Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet flavorful combination of pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The name of the dish literally translates to “cheese and pepper.” This creamy and cheesy pasta is a staple in traditional Roman cuisine.
Carbonara
Another iconic Roman pasta dish is Carbonara. Made with spaghetti or rigatoni noodles, this indulgent recipe features pancetta or guanciale (Italian cured pork), eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The result is a velvety smooth sauce that coats each strand of pasta.
Amatriciana
Hailing from the nearby town of Amatrice but beloved by Romans too, Amatriciana is a flavorful tomato-based sauce made with guanciale (cured pork jowl), pecorino cheese, onions, and chili flakes. This tangy and spicy sauce pairs perfectly with long pasta shapes like bucatini or spaghetti.
Gricia
Gricia is often considered the predecessor to Carbonara. This rustic dish consists of bucatini or rigatoni pasta tossed with guanciale (cured pork jowl) and Pecorino Romano cheese. Unlike Carbonara, Gricia does not contain eggs but still delivers a satisfyingly rich flavor.
Arrabbiata
If you prefer your pasta with a spicy kick, Arrabbiata is the perfect choice. This fiery Roman sauce is made with tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil. The name “Arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, referring to the heat from the chili peppers that adds a punch to this delicious dish.
Unique Pasta Shapes
In addition to the various sauces and flavors, Rome also boasts some unique pasta shapes that are specific to the region:
- Tonnarelli: Similar to spaghetti but square-shaped instead of round.
- Bucatini: Long hollow tubes of pasta, perfect for capturing sauces.
- Rigatoni: Large cylindrical tubes with ridges on the outside.
- Gnocchi alla Romana: Soft semolina dumplings baked in a creamy sauce.
When visiting Rome, be sure to savor these authentic pasta dishes and experience the true essence of Roman cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of creamy carbonara or prefer the fiery flavors of Arrabbiata, Rome has something for every pasta lover.