About the dish:
Hilopites are traditional Greek egg noodles that are commonly used in soups or served as a main dish. These small, square-shaped pasta noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various recipes. Here's a recipe to make Hilopites from scratch:
Recipe:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and crack the eggs into the well.
- Using a fork or your fingertips, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs, mixing well until a crumbly dough forms.
- Add water, one tablespoon at a time, as needed to bring the dough together. Continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
- Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
- Once the dough has rested, roll it out into a thin sheet using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
- Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into small squares, approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
- Separate the hilopites and spread them out on a clean, floured surface to prevent sticking. You can also lightly dust them with flour to keep them from sticking together.
- Let the hilopites dry for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they are slightly firm and no longer sticky.
- Once the hilopites are dry, you can either cook them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later use.
- To cook the hilopites, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the hilopites and cook them for about 8-10 minutes or until they are tender but still slightly chewy. Keep in mind that homemade pasta generally cooks faster than store-bought pasta, so monitor them closely.
- Drain the cooked hilopites and use them in your desired recipe.
- Hilopites can be used in various ways, such as in soups like chicken soup or beef soup, or they can be served as a main dish with a sauce of your choice. They have a delicate texture and absorb flavors well, making them a versatile addition to your Greek culinary repertoire.
Image source: miakouppa.com