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Pastina – A Cozy Kitchen

by trends January 10, 2025, 10:57 pm 2k Views

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Italian Penicillin also known as Pastina (which translates to “little paste”). This classic comfort food is made with five ingredients and is ideal for cold weather. I like to make this with my homemade chicken broth for a warming, nutrient-dense dish.

No wonder I like pasta. I love everything from Pasta al Limone, Spaghetti and Meatballs to Pasta alla Nerano. They are all divine. But Pastina is a little different. I met him a few years ago and have been hooked ever since. (And it has since gone viral on TikTok.)

It was also one of the first things I gave my little baby when he started eating solids. Let’s get started!

What is pastina?

Pastina is quintessential Italian comfort food. The pasta shape has been made by nonnas for generations. They bring out a box and their homemade chicken broth (aka brodo) every time a member of their family gets a cold.

There are two different styles: risotto type or more soup-like. The one you see here has a texture more similar to that of a risotto. If you want it thicker, feel free to add more liquid.

Ingredients you will need for the pastina

pasta pasta. See below for alternative ways if you’re having trouble finding them!
Chicken soup. For this recipe, I love using homemade chicken broth. But use store bought if you must! I like Pacific Foods or Kettle & Fire brand.
Parmigiano-Reggiano. I love the parmesan in this recipe to give it a more flavorful touch. You can also use Pecorino-Romano.
Butter. This gives it a nice, shiny texture that feels rich and luxurious.
Black pepper. A touch of spices and flavor.

Pastina Tips

Two Pastina brands. You can find pastina online at Amazon. They carry the Barilla brand. In stores (usually in Italian markets) you can find the La Casa Del Grano brand.

Difficulty finding pasta. If you have trouble finding Pastina, feel free to use Acini di Pepe, Fregola Sarda, Ditalini or Orzo.

With egg or without egg. I like to add an egg from time to time. I do this right before adding the butter. It is best to add it when the heat is off so that the egg does not cook in the pastina. It should be similar to, say, a carbonara: shiny and silky. No boiled eggs visible.

Pastina in a bowl with parmigiano-reggiano and black pepper on top.

Recipe FAQs

Why do people love pastina so much?

A big part of the reason people love pastina is nostalgia. Many people grew up eating this. It is common to have children when they are sick. A bowl in a hug.

How long does pastina take to cook?

About 4 minutes. This is another reason why so many people love pastina. It’s something that can be prepared in less than 10 minutes with a handful of ingredients.

How does pastina cure a cold?

Well, that’s not exactly the case. But it is often made with homemade chicken broth, which can be very rich in nutrients, nutritious and hydrating. It’s also easy for your body to digest because it’s incredibly soft.

More Cozy Italian Recipes

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In a medium pot, add the chicken broth (or water) and a pinch of kosher salt.
Bring to a gentle boil and once it simmers, pour in the pastina and stir.
Cover with a lid and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, uncovering and stirring occasionally. We want soft pasta!
Uncover the pastina and add the unsalted butter and Parmesan. Taste it and adjust the salt to your liking. If it is too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth. I like it to have the consistency of a very moist risotto.
Divide among bowls and garnish with more Parmigiano-Reggiano and a few rounds of black pepper.

Tips and tricks:

Two Pastina brands. You can find pastina online at Amazon. They carry the Barilla brand. In stores (usually in Italian markets) you can find the La Casa Del Grano brand.
Difficulty finding pasta. If you have trouble finding Pastina, feel free to use Acini di Pepe, Fregola Sarda, Ditalini or Orzo.
With egg or without egg. I like to add an egg from time to time. I do this right before adding the butter. It is best to add it when the heat is off so that the egg does not cook in the pastina. It should be similar to, say, a carbonara: shiny and silky. No boiled eggs visible.