Fettuccine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fettuccine

[fetʊˈkiːni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

type of pasta

Fettuccine is a type of pasta that is flat and thick, often used in Italian cuisine. It is made from egg and flour, giving it a rich flavor and a firm texture. Typically, it is served with creamy sauces, such as Alfredo, or with a variety of meat and vegetable toppings. Due to its shape, fettuccine is ideal for holding onto thick sauces, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.

Synonyms

noodle, pasta.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered fettuccine Alfredo for dinner.
  • The restaurant specializes in handmade fettuccine.
  • She tossed the fettuccine with fresh vegetables.
  • Fettuccine pairs well with pesto sauce.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • Fettuccine Alfredo, a famous dish made with butter and cheese, was created in Rome in the early 20th century.
  • In Italy, fettuccine is traditionally served with rich sauces, such as meat or cream-based sauces.
  • The culture surrounding fettuccine emphasizes sharing meals with family and friends, making it a popular choice for gatherings.

Cultural Impact

  • Fettuccine has been popularized in films and media, often associated with romantic dinners.
  • The dish has become a staple in many Italian-American restaurants throughout the U.S.
  • Cookbooks and food shows frequently feature fettuccine due to its versatility in various recipes.

Nutrition

  • Fettuccine provides carbohydrates, which give energy, especially for an active lifestyle.
  • When paired with vegetables and proteins, it can contribute to a balanced meal.
  • Homemade fettuccine can be made from whole wheat for added fiber and nutrients.

Cooking Techniques

  • Cooking fettuccine involves boiling it in salted water before adding sauces or toppings.
  • To achieve the best texture, it's essential to cook it al dente, meaning 'to the tooth' in Italian.
  • Pasta can be tossed with olive oil or grated cheese right after cooking for added flavor.

Origin of 'fettuccine'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fettuccine' comes from the Italian word 'fettuccia', which means 'little ribbon'.
  • It first appeared in Italian cookbooks from the late 19th century.
  • The plural form of the word indicates it's a type of pasta, with the 'fettuccini' ending being widely used in the United States.

The word 'fettuccine' comes from the Italian word 'fettuccina', which is a diminutive form of 'fetta' meaning 'slice'. The term refers to the flat, ribbon-like shape of this pasta. Fettuccine has its roots in Roman and Tuscan cuisine, gaining widespread popularity across Italy and eventually the world. In the early 20th century, fettuccine became particularly popular in the United States, especially after the introduction of the dish Fettuccine Alfredo, which was created by Alfredo di Lelio in Rome in the 1920s. This dish featured fettuccine tossed with butter and Parmesan cheese, leading to the pasta's enduring popularity in Italian-American cooking.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,179, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.