Spaghettoni: all about the pasta variety
Spaghetti is probably one of the most popular types of pasta in the world. But did you know that there are different variations of this classic pasta shape? Today we’re talking about spaghettoni, the thickest form of spaghetti.
Spaghettoni, which means “pieces of string” in Italian, is a pasta that is not only found in Italy, but also in most other countries. It is basically a strand of spaghetti with a thicker and wider diameter, which is often used for Roman carbonara, for example.
In this article, you’ll learn all about spaghetti and discover delicious recipes to go with this type of pasta. Let’s go!
Spaghettoni: origin and meaning
| Pasta type | Spaghettoni |
| Category | Vermicelli |
| Length | approx. 260 mm |
| Thickness | varies |
| Origin | Italy |
| Meaning | Italian term for “length of the cord” |
| Similar types of pasta | Spaghetti, bucatini, capellini |
Where does spaghetti come from?
While the exact origins of spaghettoni are not known, it is certain that it originated in Italy. Outside of Italy, spaghettoni may not be as well known, as both spaghettini (thin spaghetti) and spaghettoni (thick spaghetti) are often subsumed under spaghetti.
Just like spaghetti, spaghettoni can be used for most pasta dishes. From a meaty Bolognese to a creamy Alfredo sauce – the extra breadth of spaghettoni gives every bite that certain something.
What does spaghetti mean?
The word “spaghettoni” translates directly as “pieces of string”. Due to their thickness, they are compared to ropes rather than strings or twine, with which spaghetti is often equated. The greater width of the spaghettoni makes the pasta firmer to the bite and toothier, but it also needs to be cooked a little longer.
If you buy pre-packed pasta, pay attention to the numbers on the packet. The numbers, which usually range from 1 to 12, refer to the thickness of the pasta inside. “N.1” is usually used for extremely thin pasta, while “n.12” is reserved for thicker pasta such as lasagna. Spaghettoni are in the middle and are usually sold in an “n.8” box.
What is the difference between spaghettoni and spaghettini?
Outside of Italy, spaghettoni and spaghettini are often considered synonyms for each other. However, they are actually two ends of the spaghetti spectrum: spaghettini are thin spaghetti, while spaghettoni are the thicker version of spaghetti.
Since spaghettoni and spaghettini have many physical properties in common, they can be considered interchangeable. If you want to know which variety to use, it comes down to personal preference: Spaghettoni have a chewier texture, while spaghettini are more comparable to capellini.
Recipes matching Spaghettoni
Aglio e Olio
A deliciously simple and rustic Italian dish that only requires 4 to 5 ingredients is the perfect recipe for spaghettoni.
Carbonara
Spaghettoni are also often served with carbonara, a creamy Roman sauce consisting of egg, guanciale (seasoned bacon from the pork cheek), pecorino and black pepper.
Conclusion
Spaghettoni is one of the most versatile types of pasta on the market today. Their similarity to spaghetti ensures that they go well with almost any sauce, and the added texture is always a welcome surprise. If you are looking for a new type of pasta but are not yet ready to try something new, spaghettoni may be just the pasta for you
