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HOMEMADE POTATO GNOCCHI – SOFT AND FLUFFY ITALIAN CLASSIC

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HOMEMADE POTATO GNOCCHI – SOFT AND FLUFFY ITALIAN CLASSIC

HOMEMADE POTATO GNOCCHI – SOFT AND FLUFFY ITALIAN CLASSIC

Learn how to make soft, pillowy potato gnocchi using baked potatoes with skin for extra flavor and texture. This classic Italian dish is easy to prepare and perfect paired with your favorite sauce.

🕒 Prep Time: 1 hr 15 min (includes baking and cooling)

🍳 Cook Time: 5-7 min
🍽️ Yields: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 kg starchy potatoes (baking or salad variety)
  • 250 g all-purpose flour + extra for dusting
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 220°C. Lightly oil whole potatoes and bake for about 1 hour until tender (fork inserts easily).
  2. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise and let cool completely. Carefully scoop out the flesh, preserving skins for presentation if desired.
  3. Mash potato flesh until smooth and weigh out 1 kg for the dough.
  4. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and oil. Knead gently to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Do not overwork.
  5. On a floured surface, roll dough into logs about the thickness of a finger. Cut into 2-3 cm pieces. Dust hands and surface with flour as needed.
  6. Roll each piece over a floured fork to create oval shapes with ridges, or leave plain if preferred. Place formed gnocchi on a floured tray.
  7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop gnocchi in batches; they are cooked when they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes).
  8. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve immediately with your favorite sauce.

💡 Tips

  • Baking potatoes instead of boiling preserves flavor and reduces moisture.
  • Keep dough slightly sticky for tender gnocchi.
  • Use a fork or gnocchi board to create ridges that hold sauce better.
  • Cook gnocchi in batches to prevent sticking.

🍽️ Perfect For

  • Traditional Italian meals
  • Serving with tomato, pesto, or creamy sauces
  • Family dinners and special occasions

📝 Final Thoughts

Homemade potato gnocchi are soft, tender pillows bursting with comfort and flavor. With simple ingredients and this step-by-step method, you can bring authentic Italian taste to your kitchen.