Gnocchi in tomato sauce is a true poetry of taste and a classic Italian combination prepared differently in each region. The sweet and tangy tomatoes perfectly complement the delicate, potato-based dumplings. Finished with fresh basil, and nothing more is needed. Discover the recipe for this minimalist dish!
Ingredients
Gnocchi:
- Potatoes – 500 g
- Italian type 00 flour – 300 g
- Egg – 1 pc.
- Salt – 4 g
Sauce:
- Tomato passata – 400 g
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 50 g
- Garlic cloves – 2 pcs.
- Olive oil – 20 ml
- Fresh basil – 6 leaves
- Fresh oregano – 2 sprigs
- Salt – 2 g
- Black pepper – 1 g
Preparation
Gnocchi:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes Thoroughly wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into cubes and boil in salted water (add about 2 g of salt to boiling water). The potatoes should cook for about 15-20 minutes, depending on their size. They should be soft but not falling apart. Drain the cooked potatoes and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes Add the potatoes to a potato ricer and grate them into a smooth puree-like texture.
Step 3: Add the Ingredients In a large bowl, mix together the potatoes, egg, and salt. Afterward, add the flour and mix well.
Step 4: Knead the Dough for Gnocchi Once the ingredients are combined, start kneading the dough. The dough should be fairly elastic but not sticky.
Step 5: Shape the Dumplings Dust a work surface with flour and place the dough on it. Divide it into two parts, then roll each into a log. Cut the log into pieces about 2-2.5 cm thick and gently press with a fork to create a decorative pattern.
Step 6: Cook the Dumplings Bring a large pot of water to a boil. You can lightly salt the water, but it’s optional. Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes (until they float to the surface). Then, remove about 40 ml of water from the pot into a cup, drain the gnocchi, and set aside.
Sauce:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Peel and finely chop the garlic. Wash and chop the herbs, or tear them into pieces and set aside in a small bowl.
Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients Heat olive oil in a skillet, then add the garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes (until golden brown), then add the tomatoes.
Step 3: Season the Sauce Simmer the passata in the skillet for a few minutes, then add salt and pepper. Pour in the water from cooking the gnocchi. Stir well.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce Once the sauce thickens slightly, add the fresh herbs and mix. Let it simmer for another 8-9 minutes to reduce the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Gnocchi Add the cooked gnocchi to the hot sauce and mix. Reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve the Dumplings Transfer the finished dish to deep plates or bowls and sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
