The Recipe with Kenji and Deb Baked Ziti
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Oct 7, 2024 Dive into the playful debate on pasta shapes, where ziti takes center stage amidst heartfelt nostalgia and humorous anecdotes. The hosts share quirky opinions, tackling misconceptions, including the infamous baked ziti vs. lasagna debate. Discover innovative cooking techniques, including a unique waffle iron method, and the importance of selecting quality ricotta. Expect laughter as they reminisce about family traditions and the comforting significance of this beloved dish within Italian-American culture.
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Ziti Is A Communal, Make-Ahead Staple
- Baked ziti exists between lasagna and simple pasta: it's scooped not usually cut and thrives as a communal, make-ahead dish.
- Its strength lies in reheating, freezing, and easy serving at gatherings.
What Ziti Actually Is
- Ziti is an extruded medium tubular pasta with a smooth surface and a moderate hole size suitable for baked dishes.
- Its texture and shape make it ideal for baked casseroles where tube rigidity and bite matter.
Undercook Or Soak Pasta Before Baking
- Cook pasta slightly under box time so it finishes al dente during baking, or soak uncooked pasta to hydrate before baking to avoid boiling a pot.
- Choose the method based on desired hands-on time versus total time and texture preference.
