Delicious Gnocchi

Gnocchi

Gnocchi is a delightful Italian dish that consists of soft, pillowy dumplings made from potatoes. It’s a comforting and versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you enjoy it with a rich marinara sauce, a simple butter and sage sauce, or even just with a sprinkle of cheese, gnocchi is sure to please. Making your own gnocchi at home is easier than you might think and brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make gnocchi at home. First, it is a fun cooking activity that can be enjoyed with family or friends. Making gnocchi allows for creativity in flavors and sauces, making every batch unique. Additionally, homemade gnocchi tastes fresher and is often healthier than store-bought versions, which may contain preservatives. Plus, the satisfaction of preparing a classic Italian dish from scratch is truly rewarding!

How to Make Gnocchi

Making gnocchi is a simple process that involves just a few basic ingredients. Follow these steps to create your own delicious gnocchi.

Ingredients:

2 potatoes, peeled
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 egg
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

Gather the ingredients.
Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with 2 inches of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-high and simmer, undisturbed, until tender but still firm, about 25 to 30 minutes. Drain the potatoes and place them back in the pot to dry and cool slightly, about 5 to 10 minutes.
As soon as the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them by rubbing the skins off with your hands. Pass the peeled potatoes through a potato ricer into a large bowl, or you can mash them until very smooth. Allow the potatoes to cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
Fold in the flour, egg, and salt until the flour is combined and the dough starts to hold together. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead it once or twice until mostly smooth (do not overwork it).
Divide the dough into 4 even portions. Roll and shape each portion into long "snakes," about ¾-inch in diameter.
Cut the "snakes" into about ½-inch long pieces. (Optional: Roll each piece against the tines of a fork or a gnocchi board to make light ridges.) Transfer the shaped gnocchi to a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet dusted with flour.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over high heat. Working in batches, drop in the gnocchi and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until they rise to the top. Transfer the cooked gnocchi with a spider or slotted spoon to your desired sauce.
Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Gnocchi

Gnocchi can be served in various ways. For a classic touch, toss the gnocchi with olive oil or brown butter and sage. You can also mix them with marinara sauce, pesto, or even cream sauces for a rich flavor. Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch.

How to Store Gnocchi

If you have leftover gnocchi, it’s easy to store. Allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. Homemade gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the uncooked gnocchi. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag for storage. They can be cooked straight from frozen without thawing.

Tips to Make Gnocchi

Make sure to use the right type of potatoes; starchy potatoes like Russets work best.
Don’t add too much flour, as this can make the gnocchi heavy.
To test the dough, cook a small piece before shaping the rest to ensure the texture is right.
If your dough feels sticky, gradually sprinkle more flour as needed.

Variation

For a twist on the classic gnocchi, try adding spinach or ricotta cheese to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes to make gnocchi?
Yes, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different taste and color!

2. How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking?
Gnocchi is done when it floats to the top of the boiling water.

3. Can I reheat gnocchi?
Yes, you can reheat gnocchi by sautéing them in a pan with a little olive oil or butter, or gently reheating them in a microwave.

Enjoy crafting this delicious gnocchi recipe and savoring every bite!