Casoncelli Bresciani with a Saharan Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we incorporate Saharan spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, into the filling of the Casoncelli Bresciani. Additionally, we introduce ingredients like dates and almonds to add a touch of sweetness and crunch. The tomato sauce is also infused with Saharan flavors, creating a unique fusion of Italian and Saharan cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Casoncelli bresciani, so you can check it out.

• For the pasta: For the pasta:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground lamb 1/2 lb (225g) ground lamb
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup (40g) chopped dates 1/4 cup (40g) chopped dates
• 1/4 cup (10g) chopped fresh parsley 1/4 cup (10g) chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce: For the sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• For garnish: For garnish:
• Chopped fresh parsley Chopped fresh parsley
• Chopped almonds Chopped almonds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, water, and salt. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ground beef, ground lamb, Parmesan cheese, chopped almonds, chopped dates, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. 3.
   Roll out the pasta dough on a floured surface until thin. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each pasta circle. Fold the circle in half, sealing the edges to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to ensure they are sealed.
5. 5.
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta for about 5-6 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. 6.
   In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
7. 7.
   Add the crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Serve the cooked pasta with the Saharan-inspired tomato sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and chopped almonds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the chopped almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling or sauce.
• To save time, you can prepare the filling and sauce in advance and refrigerate them until ready to use.
• Experiment with different types of ground meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a lighter variation of the dish.
• If you don't have dates, you can substitute them with raisins or dried apricots for a similar sweet element.
• Serve the Casoncelli Bresciani with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Saharan-inspired Casoncelli Bresciani hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and chopped almonds. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed pasta on a plate, drizzle the Saharan-inspired tomato sauce over it, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and chopped almonds. The vibrant colors and contrasting textures will make the dish visually appealing.