Ferretti

Ferretti is an eggless pasta made from a simple mixture of flour and water, reflecting the resourceful culinary traditions of these areas. The dough is shaped into short, thick strands, approximately 5 to 10 centimeters in length, resembling robust bucatini.

The distinctive shape of ferretti is achieved using a ferretto, a thin metal rod similar in size to a barbecue skewer. Small pieces of dough are rolled around the ferretto and then gently slid off, creating hollow tubes. This technique imparts a unique texture to the pasta, allowing it to effectively hold onto hearty sauces. ​ Ferretti is traditionally paired with robust, flavorful sauces.

In Basilicata it's served with 'ndrupp'c, a spicy ragù featuring local ingredients like salame pezzente, a distinctive sausage seasoned with hot red pepper and fennel. Crafting ferretti is a communal activity, often involving family members across generations.