Sacchetti alla Vodka
In the heart of Italian cuisine lies a dish that effortlessly marries tradition with innovation: Sacchetti alla Vodka. This exquisite sacchetti dish is characterized by its distinctive shape and the rich, creamy sauce that accompanies it.
The History Behind Sacchetti alla Vodka
Sacchetti, translating to “little bags” or “sachets” in Italian, is a testament to the creativity and artistry inherent in Italian pasta-making. This pasta’s origins are steeped in the rich tapestry of Italy’s culinary traditions, where each region boasts its unique pasta shapes and recipes. Although the exact historical roots of Sacchetti are hard to pinpoint, it is believed that this pasta shape was inspired by the desire to encapsulate the rich fillings of cheese, meats, or vegetables, offering a burst of flavor with each bite.
The addition of Vodka sauce to Sacchetti is a relatively modern twist, emerging in the latter part of the 20th century. Vodka sauce, a creamy tomato-based sauce enriched with a splash of vodka, is said to have Italian-American roots. The vodka’s role is not to add a boozy kick but to enhance the tomato sauce’s flavors, allowing the richness of the cream and the acidity of the tomatoes to meld perfectly.
The Unique Shape of Sacchetti
What sets Sacchetti apart is its distinctive pouch-like shape, designed to hold a treasure trove of fillings. This shape is not only visually appealing but also functional, as it ensures that every forkful carries with it an explosion of flavors contained within the pasta.
The true magic of Sacchetti alla Vodka lies in the harmonious combination of its ingredients. The pasta, often filled with ricotta cheese and spinach or a mix of cheeses, provides a creamy and savory base that complements the rich, slightly tangy Vodka sauce. When served al dente, Sacchetti offers a satisfying texture contrast, from the tender bite of the pasta to the smooth, velvety sauce.
Sacchetti alla Vodka Wine Pairings
Pairing Sacchetti alla Vodka with the right wine can elevate the dining experience. A light-bodied white wine or a rosé with crisp acidity can balance the richness of the sauce, making each bite as enjoyable as the last.
Where can I find Sacchetti pasta?
I personally cannot find Sacchetti pasta at any of my nearby supermarkets so I purchase it via amazon. I am attaching my Amazon affiliate link for your reference.
Nuovo Four Cheese Sacchetti
Check out my other pasta dishes!
Penne Alla Vodka with Prosciutto and Peas
Beef Picadillo Ragu
Tomato Basil Chicken
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Elbow Pasta Salad with Tuna
Sacchetti alla Vodka
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp shallots minced
- 1/2 cup vodka I prefer Smirnoff
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tsp garlic minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 10 fresh basil leaves sliced and chopped
- grated parmesan to taste
- 16 oz Sacchetti 4 cheese filled pasta link in post
Instructions
- Over medium heat, in a large skillet, add the butter and olive oil.
- Once butter is melted, add the shallots and cook for about 3 minutes.
- At this point you can add the garlic and cook for one minute.
- Add vodka and continue to stir until the vodka evaporates to about half.
- After the vodka is 50% evaporated, add the chicken stock and crushed tomatoes. Mix well.
- Bring the sauce to a bubble over medium heat and add the heavy cream. Cover and bring to a boil again. That should only take a couple of minutes.
- Cook the sacchetti as directed, drain it and add to the vodka sauce. When you are stirring it in, do so carefully so you don't break up the sacchetti.
- Turn off the stove.
- Add desired amount of grated parmesan. Mix in well.
- Add chopped fresh basil.
- Serve with Italian bread if desired.
