Penne - Pastificio Italyca
The Organic Penne from Pastificio Italyca represent the perfect synthesis of traditional food craftsmanship and the philosophy of environmental respect that characterizes contemporary Basilicata. This shape is reinterpreted through the exclusive use of 100% Italian organic durum wheat semolina. Production takes place in the heart of the village of Grottole, a hilltop town in the province of Matera where cereal-growing culture has roots dating back thousands of years and where the dry microclimate favours the processing of high-quality semolina, far removed from the pace of large-scale industrial production.
The process begins with the rigorous selection of grains, cultivated without pesticides or synthetic chemical fertilizers, ensuring a raw material that preserves the natural structure and amber colour of cereals ripened under the sun. The dough is processed at controlled temperatures to preserve the organoleptic properties of the semolina, then passed through bronze dies that give the penne their characteristic rough and porous surface, essential for binding with sauces. This technical feature allows the pasta to absorb the sauce deeply, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
The most delicate phase is slow drying, which at the Italyca workshop is managed by simulating natural ventilation. The pasta rests for an extended period at consistently low temperatures, a method that avoids thermal shock and achieves impeccable cooking resistance and an elastic texture when bitten. This artisanal care is also reflected in the fragrance of the product, which releases an intense wheat aroma once cooked, a distinctive sign of lively pasta made using methods that respect the raw material.
The local heritage of Grottole further enhances the value of this pasta: the village is known for its ancient caves carved into tuff and its pottery tradition, a handcrafted art that ideally complements the precision required in producing ridged penne. Choosing this product means supporting the Gustolibero Social Cooperative, a project focused on civic renewal and dignified employment, transforming every pack of pasta into an act of support for the local economy and the revival of small villages in Southern Italy through employment inclusion.
Supply chain transparency and compliance with the highest organic farming standards ensure a food that celebrates biodiversity and food safety, ideal for those seeking the authenticity of a non-standardized Made in Italy. The versatility of penne makes them perfect for both traditional Lucanian recipes and creative preparations, where the external ridges and inner cavity work together to enhance pestos and velvety sauces. Every stage, from milling to manual packaging, is rigorously monitored to ensure that consumers receive an excellent product that respects the gastronomic identity of Basilicata.
