Farmer cheese pasta (in Hungarian: “Túrós csusza”) is a traditional Hungarian dish. It is prepared using cooked, crushed pasta, curd- or farmer cheese and chopped fried bacon and sour cream. In some regions it is also sprinkled with dill. Farmer cheese pasta can be served as a main dish, as a dessert at the end of the meal or as a side dish.
The importance of pasta
This dish can be made with supermarket-bought pasta, but if you want a truly authentic and delicious end result, make the pasta yourself at home. It’s not a big deal, with a little attention we can make a wonderful dough for our farmer cheese pasta.
The "Pasta story"
Few people know that the history of pasta is not very old and does not go back to ancient times. It can rather be called an “invention of modern times”. No one knows who made the first dough. There are many myths surrounding the subject. We would most likely vote for the Italians, as their pasta cult has great traditions, but many swear by its Chinese roots. According to some studies, it was even developed by the ancient Etruscans. The first records found on the subject date back to 1100, in connection with China. Around 400 AD it was found in Italy, where it became a popular food.
Italians are world leaders in pasta
The largest amount is produced in Italy: About 3.25 million tonnes of pasta come out of Italian manufactures each year. The United States is second with two million tonnes per year. In comparison, France is in fourteenth place with 247,500 tonnes, just behind Spain, which produces 252,600 tonnes per year. There is no such thing as a pasta shortage in an Italian household. It’s always available, always restocked, and always made.
They also make the most delectable pasta dishes
Everyone knows that “pasta” is the Italians’ national dish. When we think of pasta, we immediately think of Italian cuisine, and these dishes are also on the podium among the various Street Food dishes. It’s no surprise, given that it comes in a variety of shapes and flavors and can be prepared in an infinite number of ways. Spaghetti, fusilli, gnocchi, penne, pizza, and ravioli are all familiar names, and everyone has a favorite. If you use a nutritious and filling sauce, it can be used as a healthy and complete main course.
Why do we adore pasta?
Pasta is a food that can never go wrong. It is a good choice for all age groups because it is enjoyed by both children and adults. Its dishes are extremely versatile and pair well with almost any other ingredient. Because of the variety of preparation methods and variability, this ingredient has become so popular that we can’t imagine life without it. It can be sweet or salty, and it goes well with vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese, and mushrooms – in short, it’s a versatile food. It’s no coincidence that it’s the go-to dish for housewives when they’re stuck for ideas, because it’s quick and easy to prepare, and the possibilities are almost limitless.
Pasta (Farmer cheese pasta) and health
Pasta, like almost all foods, has no negative effects on our health when consumed in moderation. Excessive, regular carbohydrate consumption, when not supplemented with vegetables, fat and a protein-rich diet, has a long-term negative impact on our health and increases our risk of developing diabetes. Avoid one-sided meals by eating a varied diet!
Ingredients of farmer cheese pasta:
500 g Farmer cheese or Ricotta
1 cup of sour cream
150 g smoked bacon
400 g all-purpose fluor
4 eggs
salt
Steps:
Prepare pasta: Mix flour with 1/2 tablespoon salt and eggs. Knead into a smooth, lump-free, firm dough. Wrap in cling film and let rest 20 minutes. Cut into quarters and roll out (with a rolling pin or pasta machine) to 1-2 mm thin. Let dry completely or dry in oven at 50°C (120°F).
Break the dried pasta into larger pieces and cook in salted water for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
Melt the diced bacon in a pan and fry until crisp and golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss in the remaining fat for 2-3 minutes.
Transfer to a baking dish, add the pierced Farmer cheese and spread on top.
Sprinkle with the sour cream and fried bacon and bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes.
Serve with more sour cream and salt. Enjoy your meal!