What You Need to Know
During extrusion, dough is forced through dies at 200–400 psi, forming uniform cross‑sections that alter surface area‑to‑volume ratios. Gelatinization of starch occurs at 60–70 °C during boiling, converting crystalline granules into a viscous matrix that defines firmness. Protein content from semolina or eggs modulates gluten elasticity, enabling delicate shapes such as tagliatelle or robust forms like rigatoni.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Gelatinization of starch during boiling