How to use a KitchenAid pasta maker?

To use a KitchenAid pasta maker, you typically utilize a set of attachments that connect to your KitchenAid stand mixer, allowing you to transform fresh dough into various pasta shapes. The process involves rolling the dough to the desired thickness and then cutting it into noodles.

Getting Started: Essential Equipment

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• KitchenAid Stand Mixer: The power hub for the attachments.
• KitchenAid Pasta Roller and Cutter Set: This commonly includes a pasta roller, a fettuccine cutter, and a spaghetti cutter.
• Prepared Pasta Dough: Chilled and ready for rolling.
• Lightly Floured Surface: For handling the pasta.

Step-by-Step Guide: Using Your KitchenAid Pasta Maker

The process is generally divided into two main stages: rolling the pasta sheets and then cutting them.

1. Preparing Your Dough for Rolling

• Dough Consistency: Your pasta dough should be firm but pliable. If it's too sticky, add a little flour; if too dry, a tiny bit of water.
• Divide Dough: Cut your pasta dough into sections that will fit into the pasta roller. For most recipes, this usually means dividing it into about four sections per recipe. This makes the dough more manageable to feed through the roller.
• Flatten Sections: Briefly flatten each section of dough into a roughly rectangular shape, either by hand or with a rolling pin, to make it easier to start with the roller.

2. Using the Pasta Roller Attachment

The pasta roller is key to achieving consistent thickness for your pasta sheets.

1. Attach the Roller: Securely insert the pasta roller attachment into the power hub of your KitchenAid stand mixer. Tighten the attachment knob.
2. Set the Speed: Turn your mixer to a low speed setting (usually Speed 2).
3. Widen the Roller Setting: Start with your pasta roller on the widest setting to begin kneading. This is typically setting "1" on the attachment. This widest setting is used for the initial flattening and "kneading" of the dough.
4. First Pass: Feed one of your flattened dough sections through the widest setting.
5. Fold and Repeat (Kneading): Fold the dough in half or in thirds and pass it through the widest setting again. Repeat this folding and passing 3-4 times. This action further kneads the dough, making it smooth and elastic, which is crucial for a good pasta texture.
6. Gradually Thin the Dough:
   • Increase the roller setting by one notch (e.g., from 1 to 2). Do not fold the dough this time.
   • Pass the dough sheet through this new, narrower setting.
   • Continue to increase the roller setting incrementally (e.g., 2, then 3, then 4, and so on) and pass the dough through each setting until you reach your desired thickness. For lasagna or ravioli, settings 5 or 6 might be enough, while for delicate tagliatelle or spaghetti, you might go up to 7 or 8.
7. Handle Long Sheets: As the pasta sheets get longer, you might need to support them with one hand as they exit the roller, or use a second person to help manage them.
8. Dust with Flour: Lightly dust the rolled pasta sheets with flour to prevent sticking as you roll subsequent sections and prepare for cutting.

3. Using the Pasta Cutter Attachments

Once you have perfectly rolled pasta sheets, it's time to cut them into noodles.

1. Detach Roller, Attach Cutter: Remove the pasta roller from the stand mixer. Securely attach the desired pasta cutter (e.g., fettuccine or spaghetti cutter) into the power hub.
2. Set Mixer Speed: Turn your mixer to a low speed setting (typically Speed 2).
3. Feed Pasta Sheets: Carefully feed one end of a rolled pasta sheet into the top opening of the cutter. The machine will pull the sheet through and cut it into uniform noodles.
4. Collect Cut Pasta: As the noodles emerge, collect them and place them on a lightly floured surface, a drying rack, or directly into boiling water if cooking immediately. If not cooking immediately, lightly dust them with flour to prevent sticking.

Pro Tips for Optimal Results

• Keep Dough Cool: Work quickly, as warm dough can become sticky. Keep unused dough sections covered or refrigerated.
• Flour, But Don't Over-Flour: A light dusting prevents sticking, but too much flour can make your pasta dry.
• Consistent Speed: Maintain a steady, low speed on your mixer for smooth operation.
• Dry or Cook Immediately: Fresh pasta can be cooked right away. If drying, ensure proper airflow to prevent mold.
• Cleanliness: Always clean your attachments immediately after use.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Do NOT Wash with Water: KitchenAid pasta attachments should never be immersed in water or washed in a dishwasher. The internal mechanisms can rust and seize.
• Air Dry: Allow any stuck-on dough to air dry and harden on the attachments.
• Brush Off Dough: Use a small, stiff brush (often included with the set) or a wooden skewer to brush off any dried dough particles. You can also use a toothpick for crevices.
• Store Properly: Once thoroughly clean and dry, store the attachments in their original box or a clean, dry place to protect them from dust and damage.

By following these steps, you can confidently use your KitchenAid pasta maker to create delicious, fresh homemade pasta with ease.