Gnocchi with spicy sauce

Gnocchi with Spicy Sauce: A Culinary Journey from the Heart of Italy

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Gnocchi, those small delicious morsels that blend textures and flavors, are a symbol of Italian cuisine and are more than just a dish; they are a family story, a tradition passed down from generation to generation. This recipe for gnocchi with spicy sauce will take you on a culinary journey, giving you the chance to experience the magic of Italian cooking right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Let’s discover the secrets of this recipe together!

Ingredients

For Gnocchi:
- 1 kg of potatoes (choose high-starch potatoes, like sweet potatoes or those for mashing)
- 1.5 cups of flour (preferably type 00 flour for a fine texture)
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 egg (optional, but recommended for better consistency)

For Sauce:
- 3 cloves of garlic (finely chopped for an intense flavor)
- Olive oil (enough to sauté the garlic)
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes (about 400g)
- Fresh basil (a handful, but you can adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Hot paprika (for an extra kick of flavor and spice)

Instructions

Preparing the Gnocchi

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by placing whole, unpeeled potatoes in a large pot with cold water and a tablespoon of salt. Boil for 30-40 minutes or until very soft. You can check if they are done by inserting a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready!

2. Mashing the potatoes: Once the potatoes are boiled, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Then peel them and mash them in a large bowl, achieving a fine puree. It is essential not to let the potatoes cool completely, as the heat helps in forming the dough.

3. Adding the ingredients: Add the flour, salt, and the egg (if using) to the potato puree. Mix with a spatula or your hands, forming a soft dough. Knead gently for 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to your hands.

4. Shaping the gnocchi: Divide the dough into equal pieces. Roll each piece on a lightly floured surface until you obtain a tube about 1.5 cm thick. Cut the tube into 1 cm pieces to form gnocchi. If desired, you can give them a specific shape using a fork, gently pressing down on each piece, but this is optional.

5. Drying the gnocchi: Place the gnocchi on a clean towel and let them dry for about an hour. This is not a mandatory step, but it helps achieve a less sticky texture during boiling.

6. Boiling the gnocchi: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt. Boil the gnocchi one by one (or in small batches) until they rise to the surface. This process usually takes 2-3 minutes. Once they float, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain.

Preparing the Spicy Sauce

1. Sautéing the garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.

2. Adding the tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, along with salt, pepper, and hot paprika. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will combine, and a delicious sauce will form.

3. Finishing the sauce: Finally, add the finely chopped fresh basil and stir to incorporate the flavors. Cover the skillet and keep it on low heat until the gnocchi are ready.

Assembly and Serving

1. Combining: Once the gnocchi are ready, add them to the spicy sauce and gently stir to coat them evenly.

2. Serving: Gnocchi with spicy sauce can be served with grated cheese or goat cheese, adding an extra touch of flavor. You can garnish the plate with a few fresh basil leaves for an appetizing look.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing potatoes: Choose Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best results. They have a high starch content, which helps achieve a fluffy texture.
- Consistency test: If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as the gnocchi can become too dense.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding cooked and chopped spinach to the dough or various spices to the sauce, such as oregano or chili, to give it a personal touch.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a lemon tonic water, which will balance the rich flavors of the sauce.

Nutritional Information

This recipe for gnocchi with spicy sauce offers a balanced meal, rich in carbohydrates and fiber due to the potatoes. Tomatoes provide a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Depending on the cheese used, you can obtain a good source of calcium and protein.

Calories approximately: 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the cheese used and the amount of oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze the gnocchi? Yes, gnocchi can be frozen. Place them on a tray in the freezer to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container. Boil them directly from the freezer without thawing.

2. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the textures and flavors may vary.

3. How can I make the sauce creamier? By adding cream or creamy cheese at the end of cooking, you can achieve a richer and creamier sauce.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Gnocchi with spicy sauce will surely become a favorite in your home, bringing a touch of Italian magic to your table. Enjoy your meal!