Best Durum Wheat Orecchiette Pasta

Durum Wheat Orecchiette Pasta – made with Senatore Cappelli Durum Wheat

Senatore Cappelli is a durum wheat variety that originated in Italy and has gained renewed attention in recent years due to its exceptional qualities. This variety was selected by Nazareno Strampelli, who started with a variation from North Africa known as Jean Retifah. He named it Senatore Cappelli in honor of Senator Raffaele Cappelli, a key figure in the agrarian reform of the early 1900s.

Standing at heights of 1.80 to 2 meters, Senatore Cappelli was widely cultivated until the 1950s, thanks to its remarkable characteristics, which include high adaptability and notable organoleptic properties. Its superior qualities led to it being genetically crossed with various other wheat types to enhance their quality. However, Senatore Cappelli was eventually overshadowed by modern durum wheat varieties. These newer varieties, which are shorter (70 to 80 cm), offer higher production yields and more favorable technological traits, making pasta production more cost-effective, albeit with diminished organoleptic and nutritional qualities.

In the 1990s, Senatore Cappelli was registered in the National Register of Wheat Varieties under the name “Cappelli.” Recently, it has seen a resurgence as one of the preferred choices for producing dry pasta, bread, and pizza, primarily due to its beneficial qualities.

Cappelli wheat has recently been re-evaluated for its health and environmental benefits. In 2009, the University of Florence conducted research demonstrating its positive effects on improving certain biomarkers related to cardiovascular diseases. This wheat variety is grown using organic farming methods, without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. It is an ideal choice for those seeking natural, healthy foods that are environmentally friendly. Unlike modern wheat varieties, Cappelli wheat provides better and more complete nutrition due to its higher content of fiber, polyphenols, wheat germ, vitamins, and essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which are important for maintaining overall health.

Our processing and drying methods successfully preserve these properties, enhancing the flavors, aromas, and natural characteristics that define “healthy” wheat.

Giannetti Artisans is proud to offer this remarkable Italian tradition of orecchiette pasta, made with this very exclusive Senatore Cappelli durum wheat. Check out how to serve this delicious and exclusive Durum Wheat Orecchiette Pasta.