Mama's Pasta e Fagioli

Mama's Pasta e Fagioli Recipe - Authentic Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mama's Pasta e Fagioli is a classic Italian dish that is both hearty and comforting. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite in many households. The combination of pasta, beans, and a flavorful tomato sauce makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to "pasta and beans" in Italian, has humble origins as a peasant dish in Italy. It was a way to make a filling and nutritious meal using simple and inexpensive ingredients. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

2 minced garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
1 can of tomato sauce (8 oz (227 g))
2 cups of water or chicken stock
1 can of cannellini beans (16 oz (454 g))
0.5 lb (227 g) of ditalini or elbow macaroni

How to prepare

In a pan, gently fry the garlic in the oil until it turns golden brown.
Add the tomato sauce and water, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the beans and stir gently to mix all the ingredients. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Cook the ditalini or elbow mariachi according to the package directions, until it is al dente.
Drain the pasta and add it to the bean mixture.
Gently stir to mix all the ingredients together.
If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little more water.
Garnish with parsley and grated parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a meatier version of the dish.
Stir in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
Use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or chickpeas, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the garlic gently in the olive oil to avoid burning it and creating a bitter taste.

- Simmering the tomato sauce and water together helps to develop the flavors and create a rich sauce.

- Adding a little more water if the mixture becomes too thick will help to achieve the desired consistency.

- Garnishing with parsley and grated parmesan cheese adds a fresh and savory touch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mama's Pasta e Fagioli with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty and comforting dish.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when added to the bean mixture.

- Stir the ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the beans and pasta.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of small pasta, such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock to make the dish vegetarian.

Make Ahead Tips

Mama's Pasta e Fagioli can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Mama's Pasta e Fagioli with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a dollop of ricotta cheese for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Mama's Pasta e Fagioli with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, for a classic Italian meal. A side of garlic bread or bruschetta would also complement the dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Mama's Pasta e Fagioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 6g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 10g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 50mg per serving

Vitamin C: 5mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Dairy

Summary

Mama's Pasta e Fagioli is a balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Mama's Pasta e Fagioli is a delicious and comforting Italian dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the flavors of Italy with this hearty and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mama Lucia in her cozy little kitchen. The aroma of garlic and tomatoes filled the air as she stirred a bubbling pot of pasta e Fagioli, a traditional Italian dish that she had learned to make from her own mother.

As I watched Mama Lucia work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be captivated by the way she effortlessly combined simple ingredients to create a dish that was so rich and flavorful. I asked her if she would teach me how to make it, and with a twinkle in her eye, she agreed.

Mama Lucia shared with me the secret to making the perfect pasta e Fagioli - starting with a base of onions, carrots, and celery sautéed in olive oil until they were soft and aromatic. She then added in a generous helping of minced garlic, letting it sizzle and release its irresistible fragrance.

Next, Mama Lucia poured in a can of crushed tomatoes and a few cups of chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. She then stirred in a combination of beans - cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and chickpeas - their creamy texture adding depth and heartiness to the dish.

Finally, Mama Lucia added in a handful of ditalini pasta, letting it cook until tender and perfectly al dente. She then seasoned the pasta e Fagioli with a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a generous handful of fresh herbs - parsley, basil, and oregano - their bright flavors adding a final touch of freshness to the dish.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at the simplicity and elegance of Mama Lucia's pasta e Fagioli. Each spoonful was a burst of flavor - the tanginess of the tomatoes, the earthiness of the beans, the richness of the pasta - all coming together in perfect harmony.

From that day on, Mama's Pasta e Fagioli became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potluck dinners, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that warm summer day in Mama Lucia's kitchen, and I would be filled with gratitude for the gift of her friendship and her culinary wisdom.

Over the years, I have shared Mama's Pasta e Fagioli with many friends and family members, passing on the recipe and the memories that come with it. And as I stir the pot and let the aroma of garlic and tomatoes fill the air, I can't help but feel a deep sense of connection to my friend Mama Lucia, and to the generations of women who came before her, passing down their knowledge and love through the simple act of cooking.

In the end, Mama's Pasta e Fagioli is more than just a recipe - it is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am forever grateful.