Orzo


Orzo, also known as risoni, is a form of short-cut pasta, shaped like a large grain of rice. Orzo is traditionally made from white flour, but it can also be made of whole grain.
The name orzo is common for this pasta shape in North America, and less common in Italy; the Italian word orzo means barley.

Uses

There are many different ways to serve orzo. Orzo can be served alone; in soup, especially for children; as part of a salad, a pilaf, or giouvetsi; or baked in a casserole. Orzo can be colored by saffron, chilies, and black beans to yield yellow, orange, or black pasta. In Italy, many enjoy it in the form of a hot beverage known as Caffè d'orzo.

Similar products

Orzo is essentially identical to the κριθαράκι/μανέστρα in Greek cuisine, arpa şehriye in Turkish cooking, and لسان العصفور in Arabic cooking. In Spain, the equivalent pasta is called piñones. Confusion may arise from the fact that piñones is also the Spanish word for pine nuts.

Preparation

Orzo is often boiled in Italian soups, like minestrone. It can also be boiled and lightly fried, to create a similar dish to risotto.