Dish

Parenci

Parenci is made with homemade pasta that is rolled out thin and cut into small squares. The pasta is then cooked in boiling salted water until al dente. The sauce is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs, and is simmered until thick and flavorful. The pasta is then tossed with the sauce and served hot. This dish is a staple of Croatian cuisine and is often served with a side of crusty bread.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Croatian cuisine

Pasta

Origins and history

Parenci originates from the Istria region of Croatia, where it has been a part of the local cuisine for centuries. The dish is often served as a family dinner and is considered a comfort food in the region.

Dietary considerations

This dish is suitable for vegetarians, but is not suitable for vegans as it contains eggs. It is also not suitable for those with a gluten intolerance as it contains wheat flour.

Variations

There are many variations of this dish, including adding meat or seafood to the sauce, or using different types of herbs and spices. Some recipes also call for the addition of cream or cheese to the sauce.

Presentation and garnishing

When making Parenci, be sure to roll the pasta out thin so that it cooks evenly. You can use a pasta machine to make the process easier. When making the sauce, be sure to simmer it for several hours to extract the maximum flavor from the tomatoes and herbs. To serve, arrange the pasta and sauce together in a deep bowl. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and drizzle with olive oil. Add a sprig of fresh parsley or thyme as a garnish.

Tips & Tricks

If you don't have time to make homemade pasta, you can use store-bought pasta instead. Just be sure to choose a pasta shape that will hold the sauce well, such as fusilli or penne. To make the dish spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.

Side-dishes

Parenci is often served as a main course, but can also be served as a side dish. It pairs well with a light red wine, such as Plavac Mali or Teran. Some popular side dishes to serve with Parenci include a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.