Croxetti
Italian commercially-produced croxetti
|
|
| Origin | |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Italy |
| Region or state | Liguria |
| Type | Pasta |
Croxetti [kroˌksɛtti] is a type of pasta consisting of flat medallion or coin-shaped pasta disks stamped by hand or machine with intricate patterns.
Origin and history
Croxetti originated in Liguria, in Northern Italy along the border with France, during the middle ages.[1] In the past they were made by local peasants and used by aristocratic families as a display of wealth and status.[2][3]
They are similar to another Ligurian pasta called Corzetti.
Description
Croxetti are still produced in small batches near Genoa. They are stamped and cut into circles approximately 1.75 inches (4+ cm) in diameter from flat pasta sheets with a mold to create the distinctive patterns. The combination mold/cutter may be made of hand-carved wood[1] or a bronze die.[4] The stamping may be done by hand or by machine, with the hand-stamped versions being more elaborate.[1] The detail forms ridges that allow sauce to cling and add flavor.[1]
The pasta typically has patterns on both sides, with an intricate design on one side and a simpler pattern on the other. Whereas they once featured a family coat of arms, the fancier side now features a regional coat of arms or the maker's trademark. Typical symbols on the other side are a cross (from which the name croxetti derives), fruit, family initials,[1] sailboat, mortar and pestle, sunsets, sailboats, or palm trees.[2] In Italy they may be used as wedding favors[1] or for other events, in which case an artisan craftsman is commissioned to make the die for people to prepare the pasta at home.[4]
Croxetti are usually served with a simple meat or mushroom sauce, pesto,[2] pine nut[4] or walnut sauce, fish sauce, or light cream sauce.[5] They may also be served with a simple butter or oil, possibly with herbs, or plain.
References
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