Gnocchi
Pronounced [NYOH-kee, NOH-kee] is a small dumpling made from potatoes, flour and eggs.
The name translates literally to "a stupid person" but the reason for the
reference is unclear. Gnocchi, an Italian specialty, is served with a variety
of sauces including a simple butter and parmesan, pesto, gorgonzola cream or a
light marinara.
Gnocchi is frequently served as a side dish to meats or
poultry but may also serve as an appetizer or main course as well.
There
is a dried version of gnocchi which is actually a type of pasta.
Recipes for gnocchi have been documented
back to the 1300's. Gnocchi is more common in Northern Italy but can be found in
other regions of Italy as well. Similar dishes are served in other countries as
well.
Chef Norm Van Aken writes about gnocchi in South
America:
"In Uruguay and Argentina, where the cuisine is strongly
influenced by Italy, there is a curious tradition of unknown origin. They say
that if you eat gnocchi on the 29th of each month, you’ll have plenty of cash
for the next thirty days. Some people even place their wallets on their laps or
put a couple of bills under their plate to encourage the unknown forces at work.
Restaurant chefs and housewives invent all kinds of recipes that are intended to
aid the spell."
Sauces can be a simple as a topping of Parmesan cheese. Other popular choices
are gorgonzola cream sauce, fresh tomato sauce, olive oil and garlic.
Related Videos Gnocchi Making Tools
gnocchi board by Villaware
Gnocchi Board
A gnocchi board (gnocchi paddle) is used form the grooves on the gnocchi dumplings. The grooves help sauce to adhere to the surface.