Torchio Pasta Extruder

[smkit]

Does anyone have this pasta extruder? It looks uber cool and simple, but the price is high enough that I don't want to get it if it doesn't perform or there is something better.

http://www.pastabiz.com/machine-home/...

This summer I am learning to make my own fresh pasta, and my daughter is learning with me. I think she would find using this tool fun. She is a picky eater, so instead of fretting about it, I am starting to cook with her more and teach her how to make her own food. So fresh pasta is on for this summer.

I've already invested in a Mercato pasta maker. I guess they have attachments that are probably cheaper, but this thing looks very interesting.

[thimes]

you can make so many different shapes of pasta by hand that I can't imagine that the cost of this would be worth it. And making the shapes by hand is 1/2 the fun and experience.

[smkit]

Well, it is definitely a pass on that. Thanks for the input. With that said, I did get for $35 a chitarra from Fantes.

http://fantes.com/pasta-makers.html

[Kagemusha]

I thought Ron Popeil retired but maybe he fled to Italy. Stick with your Mercato.

[smkit]

Well Ronco aside, I've done a bit more research. Apparently Lidia Bastianich uses one and they are (or were) quite common in Italy during the day for making pasta at home. The patent dates back to the 1800s. And here is one link to a restaurant using it.

http://newyork.grubstreet.com/2008/01...

With that said, the cost and the fact that it is apparently quite hard to turn, is making me pass on it -- though apparently it does create a nice 'toothy' texture to the pasta, which is good for making that sauce adhere to the pasta.

[Kagemusha]

I make rolled sheet and cut sheet pasta often but buy quality imported extruded cuts. These presses are a pisser to turn--trust me. Pretty sure Lidia won't be found makin' like a deck hand on the "Bounty" cranking that baby.

[c oliver]

What little I've read goes along with what you do. Hazan actually thinks factory-made extruded pasta is better than homemade because the industrial equipment is better.

[ricepad]

Wow...that's kinda pricey! If you get a Play-doh Fun Factory, you'll have many more shapes from which to choose, and cheaper, too!

[smkit]

Well, she is beyond play-dohio. It has been a long time since that was on the menu. It might be pricey, but it will last forever.