Maccheroni alla chitarra
(Spaghetti alla chitarra, Guitar Spaghetti)
Maccheroni or spaghetti alla chitarra is a variety of Italian egg pasta characterized by its square cut, achieved by using a wood-frame tool that is strung with metal wires, known as chitarra, or guitar.
The tool was invented in the late 19th century in Chieti. By using this tool, the pasta develops a porous texture which enables various sauces to stick to the pasta. In the region of Abruzzo, maccheroni alla chitarra are traditionally paired with a simple pork and lamb ragu or with tomatoes and meatballs.
Older versions of the pasta included saffron in the dough, which was infused with eggs before mixing the concoction with flour. It is recommended to pair the pasta with some grated Pecorino cheese and a glass of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.
Part of
Chitarrine alla Teramana
Chitarrine alla Teramana is a traditional Abruzzese pasta dish dating back to 1600. This first-course meal consists of chitarra pasta (thin spaghetti with a square shape)... Read more
Pairing tips
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a medium-bodied red Italian wine that is produced in all four provinces of Abruzzo. The wines must be made from at least 85% of Montepulciano ... Read more
Serve with
Pecorino Romano
This hard cooked cheese is made with whole milk from pasture-grazed sheep, and has a particularly salty and slightly piquant flavor. Aged for at least 5 months, Pecorino ... Read more
Best Maccheroni alla chitarra
La Campofilone
Spaghetti alla Chitarra
Pasta Armando
La Chitarra
