What To Know
- Welcome to the world of gnocchi, a delightful Italian delicacy that is sure to impress your family and friends.
- To use a gnocchi board, gently press the gnocchi pieces down the ridges of the board to create grooves.
- To use a fork, press the gnocchi pieces against the tines of the fork to create ridges.
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your cooking skills? Welcome to the world of gnocchi, a delightful Italian delicacy that is sure to impress your family and friends. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the secrets of crafting perfect gnocchi, guided by the culinary expertise of renowned chef Jamie Oliver.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg floury potatoes (such as Maris Pipers or King Edward)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 100g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Potato ricer or masher
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- Gnocchi board or fork
- Large pot of salted boiling water
- Slotted spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into even-sized chunks.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them thoroughly using a potato ricer or masher.
2. Add the Egg and Flour:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten egg, and plain flour.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a dough.
3. Form the Gnocchi:
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into long, thin ropes about 1 cm thick.
- Cut the ropes into 1-2 cm pieces.
4. Shape the Gnocchi:
- Use a gnocchi board or fork to shape the gnocchi. To use a gnocchi board, gently press the gnocchi pieces down the ridges of the board to create grooves. To use a fork, press the gnocchi pieces against the tines of the fork to create ridges.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Remove the gnocchi from the water using a slotted spoon.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the gnocchi immediately with your favorite sauce. Jamie Oliver’s classic tomato sauce is a perfect accompaniment.
Variations:
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Use sweet potatoes instead of floury potatoes for a vibrant and nutritious variation.
- Spinach Gnocchi: Add cooked and chopped spinach to the dough for a boost of color and flavor.
- Pumpkin Gnocchi: Use roasted pumpkin puree instead of mashed potatoes for a seasonal twist.
Tips:
- Use high-quality floury potatoes for the best results.
- Do not overwork the dough, as this will make the gnocchi tough.
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour. If it is too dry, add more water.
- Cook the gnocchi in batches to prevent overcrowding.
- Gnocchi can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, lay the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag.
The Finishing Touch: Jamie Oliver’s Tomato Sauce
To complete your gnocchi experience, here’s Jamie Oliver‘s classic tomato sauce recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a saucepan.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Ending Note:
Mastering the art of making gnocchi Jamie Oliver style is a culinary achievement that will bring joy to your kitchen. Embrace the process, experiment with variations, and savor the delicious results. Remember, cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, have fun, and let your taste buds guide you.
