Gnocchi

Guide Note

Gnocchi are Italian dumplings, most often made from potatoes or wheat flour. The only other ingredients of basic gnocchi are eggs, oil and salt, though modern gourmet styles may include cheese, onions and other vegetables.

Fast Facts

1. Italian potato dumplings
2. Mixed with wheat flour or semolina
3. Pronunciation: Nyo-kee
4. Usually served with sauce or olive oil
5. South American Tradition: Eaten on 29th day each month

The potatoes must be boiled, drained, peeled and mashed. The potatoes are mixed with eggs and flour, and a measure of salt should be added. A dough can then be formed and shaped into individual pieces. The gnocchi should be no more than about an inch thick each.

The gnocchi are then boiled and seasoned as desired.

As potatoes were a readily available product to lower-income families in previous centuries, gnocchi is a dish typically served without meat. Gourmet restaurants may alter this tradition slightly. The most common vegetables to incorporate are mushrooms and spinach. Gnocchi is usually topped with a tomato sauce or drizzled with olive oil and seasoning. Chopped tomatoes are also common.