Crossword Genius

Best way to cook pasta and make an impact among the stout? (2,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

al dente

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'best way to cook pasta' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'make an impact among the stout?' is the wordplay.
'make an impact' becomes 'dent' (I've seen this in another clue).
'among' means one lot of letters goes inside another (inserted letters are placed among others).
'the stout?' becomes 'ale' (stout is a kind of ale).
'dent' inserted into 'ale' is 'AL DENTE'.

'and' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for al dente that I've seen before include "(Of pasta) still firm when bitten" , "(Of pasta) firm to the bite" , "(Of pasta) firm when eaten" , "(Of pasta) cooked, but not too soft" , "Cooked so as to be firm when eaten" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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