If you're a pasta enthusiast, you may have come across the term "bronze drawn" on packaging or in recipes. But what exactly does it mean? Let's dive into the world of pasta to understand this traditional technique and why it's still cherished today.

The Tradition of Bronze Dies

Bronze drawn refers to the method of shaping pasta dough using bronze dies. A die is a metal tool with various shapes cut out, through which pasta dough is pushed to create different forms of pasta. While many pasta manufacturers use Teflon-coated dies to produce smooth noodles, traditional pasta makers still use bronze dies. This age-old technique dates back to when pasta was first becoming a staple in Italian cuisine. Grandma's Frozen Noodles has always used bronze dies and we still use the original dies from the 1950's when making our noodles. 

Why Bronze?

Bronze dies are preferred because they give the pasta a rough and porous texture. This roughness helps sauces and stews stick to the noodles, enhancing the overall flavor and mouthfeel of each bite. The texture created by bronze dies is particularly beneficial for egg noodles being used in soups and stews or with dishes that have rich sauces.

Teflon-coated dies by contrast, used by many mass manufacturers, produce a smoother pasta that makes it more difficult for sauces to stick or absorb on their surface. This means more sauce at the bottom of the plate instead of on the noodle.

The Impact on Your Cooking

Using bronze drawn pasta can significantly elevate your culinary creations. The rough texture helps absorb flavors from the sauce, making each bite more flavorful and satisfying. Whether you're making a hearty stew, a delicate soup, or a rich pasta sauce, bronze drawn noodles will ensure that your dish is a hit.

Types of Bronze Drawn Pasta

Most types of pasta can be made using bronze dies. From spaghetti and penne to more specialized shapes like orecchiette and farfalle, bronze drawn options are available for nearly every type of noodle. This versatility means you can enjoy the benefits of bronze drawn pasta no matter what dish you're preparing.

Egg Noodles and Soup Staples

Egg noodles and pasta used in soups particularly benefit from being bronze drawn. The rough surface of the noodles helps them absorb the broth, making your soups heartier and more flavorful. This is why many traditional recipes call for bronze drawn egg noodles or soup pasta.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, is bronze drawn pasta worth the hype? If you value tradition and flavor, the answer is a resounding yes. The rough texture not only helps sauces and stews stick better but also adds a unique mouthfeel that you can't get from pasta made with Teflon-coated dies.

Where to Find Bronze Drawn Pasta

You can find bronze drawn pasta in most specialty grocery stores or online. Look for labels that mention "bronze drawn" or "bronze cut" to ensure you're getting the real deal. And remember the Grandma's Frozen Noodles are always bronze drawn. It's one more reason why they are the only noodle for your favorite soups and stews!

Conclusion

Bronze drawn pasta is a testament to the enduring traditions of Italian cuisine. By using bronze dies, pasta makers create noodles with a texture that enhances any dish. Whether you're making a rich sauce, a hearty stew, or a delicate soup, bronze drawn pasta is a game-changer. Give it a try and taste the difference for yourself!