They are made in linguine sized strips and then cut into small pieces (although some use them fresh as long pasta as well).
Using a simple hand pasta machine, the dough is run through in handful-sized pieces on setting #1, then on #3, and finally on setting #6. If using a pasta attachment on an electric mixer, start the dough on setting #1, then to #5, and finish up on setting #8. In both cases, finish the dough by running through a linquine attachment or using a linguine pasta bike (cutter used by hand). Handle with dry hands and dust with extra flour as needed to keep from sticking, especially when using the electric mixer attachment to roll out the dough.
To dry, dust the strips with flour to prevent sticking and cut into small pieces with a knife. Spread on a clean surface for 2-3 days, on a clean cloth. If drying outside in the sun (in summer), cover with tulle.
Hilopites can be found at Greek and ethnic grocers, and under the Italian name quadrettini (or quadrucci).
Simple Recipe for Hilopites (About 1 Pound / 4 Servings)
Note: As with all pasta recipes, amounts may vary slightly due to differences in flour, size of eggs, and other variables. Start with part of the flour only, adding more as needed.
4 cups of whole wheat flour
2 medium eggs
1/3 cup of milk
1/4 teaspoon of salt
flour for dusting work surfaces and dough
In a mixing bowl, start with about 2 3/4 cups of the flour, mix with the egg and salt, and add milk slowly until the dough doesn't stick to hands or bowl. Add remaining flour as needed.
- To mix by hand: Start with 2 cups of flour in a bowl or on a work surface. Create a well in the middle of the flour and add eggs. Use a fork to beat the eggs and pull in a little flour at a time. Add remaining flour slowly as needed until the dough doesn't stick to hands. Knead by hand on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until the dough is cohesive and smooth.
Cover with a kitchen towel and set aside for 20 minutes. Dust the dough with flour during rolling and cutting.
Roll out and cut as described above.
Hilopites can be dried or cooked fresh.