Sweet potato gnocchi with cheese sauce
Description
Gnocchi are oval-shaped Italian dumplings made from semolina, potatoes, cheese, cottage cheese, spinach, pumpkin, or stale bread. Traditionally, gnocchi are served with sauce.
Instructions
- 1
Step 1
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork. Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cook in the microwave for about 5-6 minutes per side. Cut in half and let cool.
- 2
Step 2
2. Mash the potatoes in a medium bowl until smooth, then transfer to a large bowl. Add the ricotta and mix well.
- 3
Step 3
3. Add grated Parmesan cheese, brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, nutmeg, and mix until smooth. Add flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, and mix until you get a soft dough.
- 4
Step 4
4. Place the dough onto a floured surface and divide into 3 equal parts. Roll each part between your palms to form long ropes about 50 cm in length and 2.5 cm in diameter. Cut each rope into 20 pieces.
- 5
Step 5
5. Roll out each piece along the tines of a fork. Place on a baking sheet.
- 6
Step 6
6. Heat a large pot of water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the gnocchi to the pot in several batches and cook until done, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the cooked gnocchi onto a baking sheet and let cool.
- 7
Step 7
7. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine milk, onion, garlic, and sage. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles appear on the surface, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand for 10 minutes. Remove the onion, garlic, and sage from the milk.
- 8
Step 8
8. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly. Reduce the heat to low and continue whisking until the sauce thickens, 4 to 5 minutes. Dip a wooden spoon into the sauce; the sauce should completely coat the spoon.
- 9
Step 9
9. Run your finger along the back of the spoon – a clean trail should remain from your finger
- 10
Step 10
10. Strain the sauce into a clean saucepan. Add 1 cup of finely grated Gouda cheese. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly, until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve gnocchi with the cheese sauce.