How to Operate a Pasta Machine

A Takka pasta and dough machine is shown.

A pasta machine is a kitchen appliance that extrudes raw pasta dough through pasta dies or a cutting device. There are commercial floor-model pasta machines and counter-top pasta devices for the home. The home appliance version comes with either an electric or manual crank. Some electric models, such as the pasta machine pictured, will mix as well as extrude the dough.

Instructions

1. 

   Choose the pasta plate or die you want to use. These individual round dies will allow you to make different-sized or -shaped noodles. Place the die in hot water for one minute before attaching it to the machine.

2. 

   Assemble the pasta machine as per the manufacturer's instructions. Fit the die onto the front of the pasta machine. Typically, this involves unscrewing the front plate of the machine and attaching the die. The front plate is then screwed back into place.

3. 

   Assemble the ingredients for a batch of pasta dough. Pasta machines often come with pasta recipes, which typically are a combination of flour, water and salt. Some recipes use eggs instead of water. If using a recipe that comes with your pasta machine, look for a little measuring cup that might be included. Often pasta machines will have measuring instruments included for use with the recipes.

4. 

   Place the pasta ingredients into the top mixing portion of the machine (if you have a pasta machine similar to the one pictured) and secure the lid in place.

5. 

   Turn the switch to mix. This will begin mixing the pasta dough. Follow the instructions on the recipe for how long to mix.

6. 

   Turn the switch to "Extrude" to begin pushing the dough through the die. Dough will be pushed out the front of the die.

Tips & Warnings

• Operating instructions may vary according to the type of pasta machine.

References

• Pasta Machine Manual