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Tortellini Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tortellini

[ˌtɔːtəˈliːni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

pasta dish

Tortellini is a type of pasta that is typically filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, or vegetables. The pasta is characterized by its distinctive shape, which resembles a small ring or a stuffed dumpling. Tortellini is often served in broth or with a sauce, making it a popular dish in Italian cuisine. It is most commonly associated with the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Marche in Italy.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered a bowl of tortellini in broth.
  • The cheese tortellini was delicious with marinara sauce.
  • She made a hearty tortellini soup for dinner.
  • We enjoyed tortellini salad at the restaurant.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Italy, tortellini is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, especially during Christmas.
  • In the Italian city of Bologna, locals celebrate tortellini with a special festival dedicated to this pasta shape.
  • Different regions in Italy claim to have the 'original' tortellini recipe, showcasing local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Cooking Techniques

  • Traditionally, tortellini are filled with a mixture of meat, cheese, or vegetables, adding a depth of flavor.
  • These pasta pieces can be served in broth, with cream sauces, or drizzled with olive oil.
  • Home cooks often make fresh tortellini from scratch, involving rolling the dough and carefully stuffing each piece.

Nutrition

  • Tortellini can be a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, especially when filled with protein-rich ingredients like meat or cheese.
  • Some recipes incorporate vegetables in the filling, enhancing the nutritional value and adding texture.
  • When served with a light sauce or salad, tortellini can be part of a balanced meal.

Popular Variations

  • Tortellini can be found in various flavors, including spinach, mushroom, and seafood, expanding the traditional options.
  • In modern cuisine, creative chefs experiment with fillings, leading to innovative versions like dessert tortellini filled with sweet ingredients.
  • Stuffed tortellini often vary in size and shape, with regional specialties showcasing unique local preferences.

Origin of 'tortellini'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'tortellini' originates from the Italian word 'tortella,' which means a small cake or pastry.
  • The suffix '-ini' indicates a smaller version, emphasizing the size of these delightful pasta pieces.
  • The dish is believed to have roots in the 12th century, depicting the rich culinary history of Italy.

The word 'tortellini' comes from Italian, where it is the plural form of 'tortellino,' which itself is a diminutive of 'torre,' meaning 'a small cake or pie,' referring to the shape of the pasta. The origins of tortellini can be traced back to the 17th century, and it is believed that it was inspired by the shapes of the female figure. According to local legends, tortellini was created in the town of Bologna as homage to the beauty of a goddess. The delectable stuffed pasta gained popularity in Italian cuisine and became a staple dish over the centuries. Today, tortellini is enjoyed worldwide, often celebrated for its versatility and comforting nature.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,356, 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.