Try gnocchi at Basta Pasta!
Gnocchi, the pillowy Italian dumpling, originally hails from Northern Italy. With colder climates best suited for growing potatoes than grain, the Northern Italians perfected the art of hearty cuisine. Every region of Italy has its own version of gnocchi, but the most common way to prepare the dish involves mashed potatoes and flour. Prepare it for yourself, and visit Basta Pasta to try our variation of the Italian classic!
Gather the Ingredients
If you’ve never prepared gnocchi before, it’s best to start with a simple recipe. All you will need are two potatoes, two cups of all-purpose flour, and one egg!
Boil the Water
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While you wait for the water to reach the correct temperature, peel the potatoes. Once peeled, add them to the pot and cook until tender. This should take about 15 minutes. Once the potatoes are tender (but still firm) allow them to cool and then mash them thoroughly.
Knead the Dough
In a large bowl, combine one cup of mashed potato, the flour, and egg. Knead until the dough forms a ball. Kneading the dough is essential because it leads to the fluffy texture of the cooked gnocchi. Work the dough into a ball, press it down, and reshape it for about five minutes.
Shape the Dough
Once you’ve thoroughly kneaded the dough, shape small portions of it into thick noodle shapes. The noodles should be about a half-inch thick. Cut the noodles into half-inch pieces and use a fork to press the pieces down lightly. This will leave a mark in the gnocchi for shape and texture.
Cook and Serve
Bring another salted pot of water to a boil and drop the gnocchi inside. Allow the gnocchi to cook for three to five minutes or until they’ve risen to the top. Drain and serve to your preference. You can toss the cooked gnocchi in olive oil and parmesan or cover it in a hearty red sauce.
VISIT BASTA PASTA
For more than 12 years, Basta Pasta has given Maryland diners delicious Italian food made from local and fresh ingredients. Enjoy delicious pasta dishes, unlimited salad and breadsticks, and fine wine at one of our locations in Timonium, Fallston, or Eldersburg. Contact us online or give us a call at the location-specific phone number listed here. Read our menu and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter! You can also order our signature crab cakes online and enjoy delicious Basta Pasta from home!