Gnocchi al Ragù

Ingredients

FOR THE GNOCCHI:

1 kg of potatoes

350 g of 00 flour

Salt to taste

FOR THE SAUCE:

300 g of minced veal

1/2 onion

1/2 stick of celery

1/2 carrot

1 l of tomato puree

red wine to taste

extra virgin olive oil to taste

Salt to taste

1 bay leaf

Instructions:

Step 1

In a pan, boil the water and boil the previously washed potatoes.

When they are ready, peel them and pass them through a potato masher.

Step 2

Then sift the flour into the bowl of mashed potatoes.

Add salt and mix well.

Dust the work surface with flour to prevent the dough from sticking and knead until it is soft.

Step 3

Then, form small loaves with a diameter of approximately 1 cm and cut them into many small pieces of approximately 2.5 cm.

Then pass them on the ridged gnocchi board, applying light pressure from top to bottom with your finger so that it takes on its characteristic shape, to better retain the seasoning.

Step 4

Separately, prepare a base of celery, carrots and onion.

Brown and add the minced meat.

Then deglaze with the red wine.

Step 5

When the alcohol has evaporated, add the tomato puree and the bay leaves (if desired, add a whole fresh chilli pepper), leave to cook.

Step 6

Separately, put a pan to boil the water and throw in the gnocchi.

Once cooked, stir in the ragù.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different types of meat for the ragù sauce?

Yes, you can substitute minced veal with other meats like beef, pork, or even a combination of different meats according to your preference.

How do I know when the potatoes are cooked for making gnocchi?

The potatoes are ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes, but it usually takes about 20-30 minutes of boiling.

Can I make the gnocchi dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi dough ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before shaping and cooking them.

Is there a vegetarian option for the ragù sauce?

Absolutely! You can omit the minced veal and make a vegetarian ragù sauce using ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) as a meat substitute.

Can I freeze cooked gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze cooked gnocchi for later use.

Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

Cooked gnocchi can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Can I use different types of potatoes to make gnocchi?

Yes, you can use various types of potatoes, but starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are generally preferred for making gnocchi due to their texture.

What does “00 flour” mean, and can I substitute it with other types of flour?

“00 flour” refers to Italian flour that is finely ground, often used in pasta and pizza dough.

While it’s best for making gnocchi, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour if necessary.

Is there a vegetarian option for the ragù sauce?

Absolutely! You can omit the minced veal and make a vegetarian ragù sauce using ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) as a meat substitute.

Can I freeze uncooked gnocchi for later use?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container.

They can be stored frozen for up to a month.

How long should I cook the gnocchi in boiling water?

Gnocchi typically cook quickly, usually in about 2-3 minutes once they float to the surface of the boiling water.

Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

Can I make the gnocchi dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi dough ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before shaping and cooking them.

What’s the purpose of the bay leaf in the ragù sauce?

Bay leaf adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the sauce. It’s commonly used in Italian cooking to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Can I substitute red wine with another ingredient in the ragù sauce?

While red wine adds depth of flavor to the ragù sauce, you can substitute it with beef or vegetable broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.

How do I know when the potatoes are cooked for making gnocchi?

The potatoes are ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes, but it usually takes about 20-30 minutes of boiling.

Can I make the ragù sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ragù sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Reheat it gently on the stove before serving with freshly cooked gnocchi.