Like most traditional Italian food, ravioli is enjoyed by people all over the world, and for good reason. This delicious and attractive-looking dish is incredibly easy and fun to make, so here’s how to do it for yourself.
Making ravioli is so easy, but before you start, you need to decide what kind of filling you would like in these little dough packets. Here are the ingredients for two suggestions, but feel free to try your own ideas too. These are both vegetarian suggestions, but are sure to win over even the most ardent carnivore.
For the ravioli:
- 250g flour
- 2 eggs
- A splash of olive oil
- Salt
- Some warm water
But first, let’s start with the fillings.
Filling for Ravioli
Here is what you need for either a truffle or pumpkin filling.
Truffle filling:
- 3-4 black truffles
- 200g porcini mushrooms
- Cooking oil
- White truffle oil
Begin by chopping the mushrooms small and fry on a medium heat in a small glug of cooking oil for about 5 minutes. Turn the heat down low and grate the truffles over the mushrooms and mix with a few glugs of white truffle oil. Stir until mixed well, then add a small amount of warm water and mash with a fork until you have a puree.
Pumpkin filling:
- 250g pumpkin (boiled until soft)
- 100g ricotta cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Nutmeg
Cube the softened pumpkin and mix well with the cheese, season well and mash until you have a puree.
How To Make The Ravioli
Ready with your ingredients? Good, then lets get started.
Sift the flower into a large mixing bowl, add salt and beaten eggs, and mix well. Add a decent glug of olive oil and a small amount of water as necessary, then beat and knead until you have a nice smooth dough. Roll this out flat and use a glass to cut circles. Place a spoonful of filling in the middle of each circle, but not too much, then fold each circle over and use a fork to press the edges together.
Boil up a pot full of water and add your ravioli to this. Ten minutes should be enough, then drain the water and serve with your favourite sauce, and some chives or pine nuts as a garnish. This is guaranteed to impress every dinner guest.
