'Coquillettes' is a type of small, short, tubular pasta originating from France. The name 'coquillettes' comes from the French word 'coquille', meaning 'shell', which refers to the shell-like shape of this pasta.
Coquillettes are made from durum wheat semolina and water, and are typically extruded through a die to create their distinctive short, hollow tube shape. They are similar in appearance to elbow macaroni, but with a slightly more elongated and curved form. Coquillettes typically range from 1-2 inches in length.
In French cuisine, coquillettes are a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes, particularly casseroles, gratins, and pasta bakes. They are often combined with cheese, vegetables, meat, or seafood to create hearty, comforting meals. One classic French preparation is 'coquillettes au jambon', which features coquillettes pasta tossed with diced ham, cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Coquillettes are also commonly used in soups and stews, where their small size and hollow shape allows them to absorb flavorful broths and sauces. They can be boiled and added to vegetable or meat-based soups, or incorporated into rustic, one-pot dishes like cassoulet.
Beyond savory applications, coquillettes can also be used in sweet preparations. In parts of France, they are sometimes combined with fruit compotes, custards, or chocolate sauces to create desserts with an interesting textural contrast.
Coquillettes have a mild, slightly nutty flavor that allows them to pair well with a wide variety of ingredients. Their small size and hollow shape also make them a versatile pasta choice, as they can be used in both light, delicate dishes as well as heartier, more substantial meals.
While coquillettes are most strongly associated with French cuisine, similar small, tubular pasta shapes can be found in other culinary traditions around the world. For example, the Italian pasta known as 'ditali' shares many similarities with coquillettes in terms of size, shape, and culinary applications.
Overall, coquillettes are a beloved and versatile pasta type in French cooking, valued for their ability to soak up flavors, provide textural interest, and serve as a foundation for a wide range of comforting, satisfying dishes.