gnocchi: simple Italian dumplings elevate dining worldwide
Italian cuisine is often described as both delicious and simple, and this is certainly true for gnocchi. They don't require much effort to prepare, and their taste is unforgettable, which is why gnocchi are popular not only in sunny Italy.
Gnocchi are traditional Italian dumplings that have gained popularity worldwide. The main ingredient is potatoes, which, when combined with flour and eggs, form a delicate dough. Gnocchi are noted for their distinctive grooves, which help sauces cling better and enhance the flavour of each dish.
What makes Italian gnocchi special?
Italian gnocchi are often compared to other dumplings, but they mainly differ in shape. Most dumplings are cut from dough rolls, while gnocchi are traditionally shaped into small balls with grooves pressed in with a fork. However, to simplify preparation, you can cut them in the homemade version. The finished dumplings are soft and delicate in flavour. The way they are served, like their preparation, varies by region in Italy. Thanks to the aforementioned "grooves," they work perfectly with sauces.
Delicious dumplings like at a Korean grandma's. The sticky sauce steals hearts
How to serve gnocchi?
These potato dumplings are ideal for lunch or a warm dinner. They pair perfectly with sauces such as tomato, cream, mushroom, or spinach. Italians also enjoy serving them simply with melted butter, fresh or dried herbs, and grated cheese. They can also be paired with vegetables, like spinach, which adds freshness and lightness to the dish. Gnocchi make a great side dish for main courses, especially for meat with sauce. Italians don't hesitate to add them to soups as well. They taste great in tomato or vegetable soup. Gnocchi are incredibly versatile, especially in their basic form.
How to make classic gnocchi?
Classic gnocchi can be easily made with just four ingredients. There are also variations, such as pumpkin, beet, or spinach gnocchi, that not only introduce a new flavour but alter the colour as well. However, if you haven't tried making this Italian dish yet, it's best to start with the traditional version.
Traditional gnocchi
Ingredients:
- About 1 kilogram of floury potatoes,
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (durum wheat is ideal),
- 1-2 eggs,
- A teaspoon of salt.
Preparation method:
- Thoroughly scrub and rinse the potatoes. Once clean, cover them with cold water and cook. Then drain, dry, and leave them to cool slightly. When they are warm, peel the skins off.
- Grind the prepared potatoes in a meat grinder using medium-sized holes, or use a potato ricer.
- Add the egg, salt, and a cup of flour to the potatoes. Knead the mixture just until the ingredients are combined.
- Divide the potato mixture into several parts and form each one into a log about 1.5 centimetres thick.
- Cut the dough into dumplings and make "grooves" in each using a fork.
- Cook the dumplings in batches in salted boiling water. After they float to the top, let them cook for about 1.5 minutes more before removing.
