Homemade Beef Ravioli

I have always wanted to make homemade ravioli.  I must confess, without a pasta maker to thin the dough out,  I may not try making this again for quite a while.  As you know,  I am not the best with dough.  Even after rolling it numerous times, I was unable to get it as thin as it should be.  The recipe makes 48 raviolis per batch, mine made 24.  On a different note,  the dough tastes just like it should be.  I have some extra filling left, (which is very delicious, by the way)  so tomorrow, I am going to serve it with homemade marinara sauce.  I will serve this tonight with Browned Buttered Sauce. (under sauces, January 16, 2013)  Bon Appetit!

Filling:
1/2 lb ground beef
1 small minced onion
1 minced garlic clove
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg

Dough:
2  1/4 cups flour
2 eggs
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Filling:

• In a large skillet, cook beef, onions and garlic over medium heat until all juices are evaporated, onion is tender and meat is browned.  Remove from heat, and stir in parsley, cheese and egg
• Cover and refrigerate

Dough:

• In a large bowl, stir in flour, eggs, water and oil to make a stiff dough
• On a well-floured surface, knead dough until smooth, not sticky
• Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes
• Cut dough into 4 pieces
• On a floured surface, use a floured rolling pin and roll 1 piece into a 12 x 8 inch rectangle
• Using a dull knife or pizza cutter, mark dough into 24 - 2 inch squares. (mine were much bigger)
• Place a small amount of beef filling in the center of each square
• Roll out a second piece of dough and place on top of filled dough
• Cut raviolis and pinch all 4 sides
• Place finished product on a clean, floured dish towel to dry for 30 minutes
• Repeat with remaining dough
• After 30 minutes,  bring  a large pot of water to boiling and place ravioli in; carefully separating with a fork to avoid sticking
• Reduce heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes, or until firm, but tender
• Drain and use with your favorite sauce

-Queenie Cuisine