(A) DOUGH
Semolina and water meet.
The mix passes through a continuous screw machine that works slowly and precisely.
The movement and hydration allow the proteins in the semolina to combine and form the gluten mesh : a natural network that will give strength to the pasta and allow it to hold its shape during cooking.
Structure is born here. Strength is born here.
(B) EXTRUSION
The dough is pushed through a die , which determines its shape: spaghetti, penne, fusilli. A blade cuts the pasta to the desired length.
At this stage, a significant part of the surface porosity comes into play, influenced by: (1) die material, (2) extrusion speed, and (3) working temperature. A slow and controlled extrusion preserves the dough and prepares the pasta to bind the sauce better.
(C) DRYING
This is the most delicate phase. It serves to eliminate excess water until the final humidity level does not exceed 12.5% .
Drying at high temperatures causes a partial gelation of the carbohydrates: the pasta is effectively pre-cooked , with a more compact and crystalline internal structure.
Slow drying, on the other hand, leaves the semolina raw inside , creates natural porosity and returns a lively, elastic pasta, capable of holding the sauce.