The Forktionary Angle
"The comforting tiny tube that makes big waves in soup."
Definition
A small, short, tubular pasta, often smooth, frequently used in soups, stews, and pasta salads, valued for its ability to hold broth and sauces.
Sensory Profile
Technical Metrics
Average Cooking Time
7-10 minutes
Ideal Dish Use
Minestrone, Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta Type
Durum Wheat Semolina
Nutrition Facts
Per 56 g (1/2 cup dry)Chef’s Secret
For pasta in soup, cook tubetti separately to al dente, then add to the soup at the very end to prevent it from getting mushy and absorbing too much broth.
Substitutions
Ditalini
1:1Very similar small tube shape and size, excellent for soups and stews.
Elbow Macaroni
1:1Curved tube shape, slightly larger, works well in most applications where tubetti is used.
Orzo
1:1Rice-shaped pasta, suitable for soups and salads, but a different mouthfeel.
Pastina (Stelline)
1:1Very tiny pasta, good for thin soups, but smaller and different shape.
Buying Guide
Look for firm, unbroken pasta. Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.
