Pronunciation: [pˈapɑːdˌɛl] (IPA) 
Pappardelle is a popular Italian pasta dish, but the spelling can be tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /pəˌpɑrˈdɛlɛ/. The "a" sounds are pronounced as "ah", the two "p's" are pronounced together, and the "d" sound is followed by an "e" to make the "del" sound. The final "e" is silent. Remembering these phonetic rules can help you spell pappardelle correctly and impress your Italian food-loving friends.
Pappardelle is a type of broad and flat ribbon-like pasta originating from Italy. It is commonly associated with the Tuscan and Emilia-Romagna regions, where it is a staple in traditional Italian dishes. The name "pappardelle" is derived from the Italian verb "pappare," meaning to gobble up or eat with gusto, a fitting description for this hearty pasta.
Pappardelle is characterized by its wide and long shape, typically measuring about 0.5 to 1 inch in width. The thickness of this pasta, which may vary depending on personal preference, contributes to its satisfyingly chewy texture when cooked al dente. Pappardelle is made of a simple mixture of flour, eggs, and salt, which is kneaded into a smooth dough before being rolled out and cut into the desired width.
Due to its wider shape, pappardelle has a greater surface area compared to other types of pasta. This makes it an ideal choice for pairing with rich and robust sauces that can cling to its broad surface. Some popular sauce options for pappardelle include ragù, a meat-based sauce, as well as creamy mushroom, tomato-based, or seafood sauces. Pappardelle can also be used in pasta salads or served with lighter sauces that allow the taste and texture of the pasta itself to shine.
Overall, pappardelle is a versatile pasta with a satisfyingly chewy texture and a wide surface area, making it perfect for holding dense and flavorful sauces. Its name evokes the idea of savoring and devouring this delightful Italian pasta dish.
The word "pappardelle" is derived from the Italian language. It comes from the verb "pappare", which means "to eat hungrily". Pappardelle is a plural form of "pappardella", which is the diminutive of "pappa", referring to baby food or any soft, mushy food given to infants or elderly people who have difficulty chewing. Therefore, pappardelle roughly translates to "little food for babies" or "small bites". This name likely describes the wide and flat ribbon-like shape of the pasta.
