Itallian Gnocchi with Gorgonzola

This weekend see’s the Euro 2012 Final between Italy and Spain – so here is the first part of our recipe choices in relation to this weekend’s events – Gnocchi with Gorgonzolla

Gnocchi (Photo credit: Surminga)

Ingredients -

1 kg floury potatoes
330 g flour
1 egg (lightly beaten)
250g gorgonzola cheese
30g butter
3 tbsp double cream
black pepper
chopped chives, to garnish

Step By Step Instructions -

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas 4.

2. Put the unpeeled potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with salted water and bring to the boil. Simmer briskly for 15-20 minutes until tender, then drain. Peel and cut in quarters. Place on a baking sheet and put it in the oven to dry for about 5 minutes

3. Pass the potatoes through a mouli or coarse sieve set over a large bowl. Quickly stir in the flour and egg, and season with salt. When nicely blended, cover with a clean tea towel to retain the warmth.

4. Take a little of the potato mixture and roll into a long thin sausage. Slice into pieces about 2.5cm long. Using a gnocchi paddle or a fork, roll the gnocchi with your thumb. Roll it the other way to make ridges on the side.

5. Continue until you have used up all the potato mixture. Place the prepared gnocchi on well-floured trays as you work.

6. Meanwhile, bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. Drop in the gnocchi in batches. Simmer briskly for about 5 minutes until they rise to the surface. Drain gently using a wire scoop, and transfer to a warm serving dish.

7. While the gnocchi are cooking, melt the gorgonzola and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. When completely melted add the cream and boil for 1 minute.

8. Add the cheese mixture to the gnocchi and gently stir to mix. Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve immediately.