When we think of Argentine cuisine, images of succulent barbecues and perfectly golden empanadas immediately come to mind. However, there’s another dish that has earned a special place at the Argentine table: handcrafted pasta. At El Porteño, we’ve perfected the art of combining Italian tradition with the distinctive touch of Argentine gastronomy, bringing a unique and delicious experience to your plate.
Italian Influence on Argentine Cuisine
Italian immigration to Argentina during the 19th century left an indelible mark on the country’s culture and gastronomy. One of the most important legacies is the passion for pasta. It’s not uncommon for Argentine families to enjoy a good plate of pasta on Sundays or special occasions, making this dish an integral part of everyday life.
Pasta in Argentina isn’t just cooked with the care that fresh ingredients require, but it’s also combined with local ingredients and techniques that give it a special twist, making each bite a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
The Artisanal Process: The Secret to Perfect Pasta
At El Porteño, we believe that quality begins at the base. That’s why our pastas are made from scratch, following a careful process that guarantees freshness and authenticity in every dish. By preparing the pasta from scratch, we achieve an unparalleled texture and flavor that simply cannot be compared to industrial versions.
The dough is hand-rolled, using high-quality flour and fresh water, achieving the perfect consistency that absorbs sauces without losing its firmness. The result is soft and light pasta that maintains its integrity when cooked and paired with our homemade sauces.
Varieties of Pasta at El Porteño: Cavatelli, Spaghetti, and Rigatoni
At El Porteño, we offer a selection of handcrafted pastas to suit all tastes. Whether you prefer a heartier dish or something light and fresh, we have the perfect pasta for you:
- Cavatelli
This small, rustic pasta has a unique shape reminiscent of little shells. Its texture is ideal for absorbing creamy sauces, and each bite is a burst of flavor. - Spaghetti
A timeless classic. Our handcrafted spaghetti is thin and delicate, perfect for dishes that require a light yet flavorful base. It’s the ideal choice if you’re looking for something traditional but exceptional. - Rigatoni
If you prefer a more substantial pasta, rigatoni is for you. With its tubular shape and rough texture, this type of pasta is perfect for holding onto thicker, richer sauces. Each bite of rigatoni becomes a delicious vehicle for our sauces.
Sauces to Pair: The Finishing Touch
The sauce is what takes handcrafted pasta to the next level, and at El Porteño, we offer a variety of homemade sauces, each with its own character and flavor. You can choose from:
- Pomodoro
A classic sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, perfect for those who enjoy a simple yet full-flavored dish. Its freshness and balanced acidity make the texture of our handcrafted pastas shine. - Burro
Butter-based, this sauce is smooth and creamy. It’s ideal for those seeking a more delicate dish, where the pasta itself takes center stage. It adds an elegant and simple touch to your choice of cavatelli, spaghetti, or rigatoni. - Mushroom
For lovers of deep, earthy flavors, our mushroom sauce is the perfect choice. Made with a blend of fresh and dried mushrooms, this sauce is rich in umami and offers an intense and memorable experience.
A Culinary Journey in Every Plate
At El Porteño, we don’t just strive to offer pasta of the highest quality; we also aim to convey the essence of authentic Argentine cuisine. Each of our dishes is carefully prepared, following traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. We believe that every meal is an opportunity to take you on a culinary journey that celebrates the history and flavors of Buenos Aires.
Come Enjoy Handcrafted Pasta at El Porteño
If you’re a pasta lover or simply seeking an authentic gastronomic experience, we invite you to visit El Porteño. Our handcrafted pastas, combined with the best sauces, will make you feel as if you’re dining in an authentic porteño bodegón.
Come and enjoy handcrafted pasta Porteño style, where every dish is prepared with passion and dedication. Whether you choose cavatelli, spaghetti, or rigatoni, paired with our pomodoro, burro, or mushroom sauce, we’re confident that you’ll have a culinary experience unlike any other.
We look forward to welcoming you at El Porteño, where you can discover the true taste of handcrafted Argentine pasta in the heart of CDMX!