Gnocchi, a beloved Italian dish, has a rich and fascinating history.
Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, where similar dumplings were made by different cultures across Europe and the Mediterranean. However, the specific origins of gnocchi as we know it today are often associated with Italy. The word “gnocchi” is derived from the Italian word “nocchio,” meaning a knot in wood or a knuckle.
It is believed that gnocchi was introduced to Italy by the Romans, who then spread it across their empire. Over the centuries, various regional variations of gnocchi emerged, utilizing different ingredients such as semolina, wheat flour, or potatoes. Today, gnocchi is a cherished culinary delight, enjoyed in countless variations and often served as a comforting pasta alternative or as a side dish to complement a variety of sauces. Its enduring popularity showcases the appeal of this simple Italian delicacy. In this recipe blog we will be teaching you how to create this masterpiece with less than 5 ingredients!
Here’s a simple recipe for homemade gnocchi:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
Instructions:
- Start by boiling the unpeeled potatoes until they are tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You can check if they’re done by inserting a fork into the potatoes. If it goes in easily, they are ready.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, dry them and let them cool slightly. Then, peel off the skins.
- Next, use a potato ricer or a fork to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps. Let them cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, and the egg. Mix them together until a dough forms. It should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Dust your work surface with flour and transfer the dough onto it. Divide the dough into several smaller portions and roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick.
- Use a knife to cut the ropes into small pieces, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. These small pieces are your gnocchi. You can also use the tines of a fork to create ridges on the gnocchi pieces.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook them until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the gnocchi float, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and transfer them to a serving dish or directly into a sauce of your choice.
- Serve the gnocchi hot with your favorite sauce. You can try them with tomato sauce, pesto, or a creamy cheese sauce.
Enjoy your homemade gnocchi!
