Gnocchi (pronounced “nyoh-kee”) are soft, pillowy Italian dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. These bite-sized delights are a staple in Italian cuisine and can be served with a variety of sauces, from creamy Alfredo to rich tomato basil. Making gnocchi from scratch may seem intimidating, but with this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll be crafting restaurant-quality gnocchi in no time.

---

Short Description of Gnocchi

Gnocchi are traditional Italian dumplings made with a simple dough of mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs. They have a tender, chewy texture and are often paired with flavorful sauces like pesto, marinara, or brown butter sage. Gnocchi can be boiled, baked, or pan-fried, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

---

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make homemade gnocchi:

For the Gnocchi Dough:

• 2 pounds (about 4 medium) russet potatoes
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt

For Cooking and Serving:

• Salt (for boiling water)
• Your choice of sauce (e.g., marinara, pesto, Alfredo, or brown butter sage)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

---

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks.
2. Place the potato chunks in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

1. Use a potato ricer or masher to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid using a food processor, as it can make the potatoes gluey.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes on a clean surface and let them cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Gnocchi Dough

1. On a floured surface, create a mound with the cooled mashed potatoes.
2. Make a well in the center and add the egg and salt.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour into the potatoes, kneading gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the gnocchi tough.

Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi

1. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
4. (Optional) Use a fork to create ridges on each gnocchi by gently pressing and rolling them. This helps the sauce cling to the gnocchi.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Add the gnocchi in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
3. Cook until the gnocchi float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and transfer them to a plate.

Step 6: Serve the Gnocchi

1. Toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite sauce.
2. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg

---

Ending Notes and Tips

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for gnocchi because of their high starch content and low moisture.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading can make the gnocchi dense. Handle the dough gently.
3. Test the Dough: Before shaping all the gnocchi, cook a test piece to ensure the dough holds together. If it falls apart, add a bit more flour.
4. Freeze for Later: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a baking sheet and stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen.
5. Get Creative with Sauces: Gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces, from classic marinara to creamy Gorgonzola.

---

Health Benefits of Gnocchi

While gnocchi is a carbohydrate-rich dish, it offers some health benefits when made with wholesome ingredients:

1. Potatoes: A good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, especially when the skins are left on.
2. Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
3. Whole Wheat Option: For a healthier twist, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
4. Customizable: Gnocchi can be paired with nutrient-rich sauces like tomato basil (rich in antioxidants) or spinach pesto (packed with vitamins).