In the past few weeks, supermarkets have increasingly faced empty pasta shelves. After all, pasta is ideal for the pantry in times of the corona crisis. They have a long shelf life, are quick to prepare and taste good. But what many do not know: pasta water is a real all-rounder. That is why the motto is to never throw away the pasta water. Because of the minerals and starch that enter the water through the pasta, it is rich in it and perfect for further processing. The following tips will help you to use the resulting pasta water ideally for the household.
Tip 1: pasta water for plants
The minerals are not only good for humans, but also for plants. The water can be poured not only into vegetable patches, but also into the flower pot at home. You just have to make sure that the water is not too hot. The temperature may be lukewarm at most. Too salty water is also harmful to the plants. Low-salt and well-tempered water are sometimes wellness for the plants.
Tip 2: hair treatment
You can also do something good for your hair. The remaining water is suitable as a beauty product. Pour the pleasantly tempered water over your head so that the entire hair is wet. Then leave the pasta water treatment to take effect for ten minutes and then rinse with clear water and shampoo. This gives you a silky shine.
Tip 3: sauces and pestos
The starch contained in the pasta water is good for binding any kind of sauces, dips and pestos. This creates a creamy consistency. Processing should be done while hot. If the water is already salted, less seasoning is required.
Tip 4: steam cooking with pasta water
Pasta water is also used in the steam cooker. The taste doesn't change much, but you save water and can use the pasta water again. Steaming is a gentle way of preparing vegetables and meat.
Tip 5: Soothing foot bath
A foot bath is used for relaxation. You can also use pasta water for this! The minerals make the skin softer and ensure a feel-good effect. The temperature should be between 40 and 50 degrees. Too hot water can cause burns.
Tip 6: bread and pizza dough
Liquid and salt are required for each dough production. Both are contained in pasta water. The taste becomes more intense and binds even better due to the strength.
Tip 7: base for soups and stews
The same principle applies here as for sauces and dips. The pasta water replaces clear water or broth for pouring. This makes the dish thicker and more aromatic.
Tip 8: Soak the beans in pasta water
Legumes should be soaked overnight so that they have to cook shorter and are easier for the human body to digest. Instead of clear water, the pasta water can be used for this. It creates a more intense taste and the cooking time is shorter.
Tip 9: detergent
After cooking, the dishes pile up in the kitchen. The water that remains after cooking the pasta can be used for cleaning. The starch in the water removes all pollution. Allow the pasta water to cool down, the consistency will then become jelly-like. This effect is intensified in the refrigerator. If the liquid is too thin, simply boil it down even more. In this way, the pasta water becomes a natural cleaning agent.