Filled pasta, as the name suggests, is a pasta dough stuffed with a variety of savoury or sweet fillings. Traditional pasta dough typically consists of flour, eggs, and sometimes water, kneaded together to achieve a smooth, elastic consistency. This dough serves as the vessel for an array of fillings, ranging from cheese and vegetables to meats and herbs. Originating in Italy, filled pasta has evolved over centuries into a diverse culinary tradition enjoyed worldwide.

Making filled pasta at home is a rewarding culinary experience, made easier with the assistance of a stand mixer like the Kenwood Cooking Chef XL. Begin by preparing your pasta dough using the mixer's Stainless Steel Dough Tool, combining in the bowl flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
 
Next, attach the Lasagne Roller Attachment to your stand mixer to roll out thin sheets of pasta dough. Once rolled, place spoonfuls of your chosen filling at regular intervals along the pasta sheet. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pressing down firmly to seal the edges.
 
Using a sharp knife or a pasta cutter, cut the filled pasta parcels into desired shapes, whether squares for ravioli or triangles for tortellini (the latter then need to be carefully folded, giving them their typical shape). Ensure the edges are securely sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
 
Filled pasta, with its myriad of shapes, fillings, and flavours, offers endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Whether making delicate ravioli or hearty tortellini, the art of filled pasta invites experimentation and innovation in the kitchen. With the right tools, such as a Kenwood stand mixer and attachments, you can embark on a journey of pasta-making, delighting your taste buds with homemade creations that rival those of Italian trattorias. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of filled pasta unfold in your kitchen!