Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. Its unique taste comes from the sweetness of the potatoes combined with the savory elements of bacon and cheese. This recipe not only offers a fun cooking experience but also results in a delicious meal that can impress guests or satisfy your family.
Moreover, Sweet Potato Gnocchi is versatile and can be served with a variety of sauces or toppings. Whether you are looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish for a special occasion, this gnocchi fits the bill perfectly.
Equipment Needed for Sweet Potato Gnocchi
To make Sweet Potato Gnocchi, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure success. The right equipment can make the preparation easier and more enjoyable.
A large pot for boiling water is fundamental to cook the gnocchi. A mixing bowl is needed for combining the ingredients smoothly. A potato ricer or a fork will help you mash the sweet potatoes until they are light and fluffy. You’ll also need a rolling pin to shape the dough and a sharp knife to cut the gnocchi into pieces. Lastly, a skillet is required for sautéing the gnocchi with bacon and sauce.
What You Need to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi
- 1 lb. sweet potatoes (2 medium)
- 1/4 cup ricotta
- 2 Tbsp. maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. sweet paprika
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
- 2 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp. bourbon
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika, plus more for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving
- Chopped fresh herbs
How to Cook Sweet Potato Gnocchi Step by Step
Start by washing and drying the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Once clean, pierce each potato all over with a fork to ensure even cooking. You have two options for cooking the sweet potatoes: roast them in the oven or microwave them until they are tender and creamy. If you’re roasting, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the potatoes on a baking sheet, roasting them for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until soft. If using a microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Once the potatoes are cooked, allow them to cool slightly, making them easier to handle. Cut each potato in half and scoop out the insides into a bowl, discarding the skins. For a flawless texture, run the potatoes through a potato ricer or mash them well with a fork until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the riced sweet potatoes with the ricotta, maple syrup, salt, sweet paprika, pepper, nutmeg, and the egg. Stir these ingredients until they form a smooth mixture. Next, gradually fold in the whole wheat flour, followed by the all-purpose flour. Add just enough flour to form a soft dough while being careful not to overwork it.
Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with clean plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for better flavor development.
When you are ready to shape the gnocchi, divide the chilled dough into four pieces. Take one piece at a time and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a long rope about ½ inch in diameter. Use a sharp knife to cut the rope into 1-inch pieces and place them on a lightly floured baking sheet to prevent them from sticking to each other.
Next, prepare to cook the gnocchi. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully drop the gnocchi into the water. They are ready when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
While the gnocchi are cooking, you can prepare the sauce. In a skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and foam. When the gnocchi are done cooking, use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly into the skillet with the bacon fat.
Carefully fry the gnocchi in the skillet until they are golden brown, which adds a delicious crispness to them. Next, add maple syrup, bourbon, and smoked paprika to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook until the mixture becomes saucy, ensuring the gnocchi are evenly coated.
Before serving, garnish your beautifully cooked Sweet Potato Gnocchi with freshly grated Parmesan, an extra sprinkle of smoked paprika, and chopped fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Making Sweet Potato Gnocchi at home is a satisfying project for anyone who enjoys cooking. Start by selecting your sweet potatoes; the fresher they are, the better your gnocchi will taste. The technique of combining these ingredients may take some practice, but the delicious end product makes every effort worth it.
Begin by cooking your sweet potatoes until tender, followed by mashing or ricing them. The key to a great gnocchi lies in the smoothness of the potato base. Incorporating ricotta adds creaminess, while the flour helps create the dough structure.
Resting the dough is crucial as it allows the gluten in the flour to relax. During this time, you can prepare the toppings or sauce. When rolling out the gnocchi, ensure you use enough flour on your work surface to prevent sticking while keeping the dough from becoming too tough.
Once your gnocchi have been formed and cooked, you can quickly finish them in the skillet with the savory sauce to impart incredible flavor. This method not only enhances the taste but also creates wonderful texture and color that elevate the dish.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Serving Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful experience, as the colors and aromas will surely impress your guests. Start by placing a generous serving of the gnocchi on each plate, and then drizzle the warm bacon and maple sauce over them for an extra burst of flavor.
Garnish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm gnocchi, enhancing both taste and presentation. For an additional touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika and a handful of freshly chopped herbs on top for a vibrant contrast.
Ensure each serving is warm, so the sauce and garnishes meld perfectly with the gnocchi to create a comforting dish that looks as good as it tastes.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Sweet Potato Gnocchi pairs well with various side dishes and accompaniments for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide freshness and a key contrast to the richness of the gnocchi, balancing flavors well.
You could also consider serving roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus alongside. Their earthy tones and slight char will complement the sweet profile of the gnocchi beautifully.
Another great pairing could be some rustic bread that can be used to sop up any leftover sauce, ensuring no flavors go to waste. A crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would also elevate your dining experience.
How to Store Sweet Potato Gnocchi
To properly store Sweet Potato Gnocchi, start by allowing it to cool completely if it has already been cooked. Place the cooled gnocchi into an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to store uncooked gnocchi, you can keep them on a floured baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage. Frozen gnocchi can last for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to use them, there’s no need to thaw; simply drop the frozen gnocchi into boiling salted water, and they will be deliciously ready in no time.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Making Sweet Potato Gnocchi is an art that can be perfected with a few helpful tips. First, choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results.
When cooking the potatoes, ensure they are thoroughly cooked yet not overly watery. The moisture content can affect your dough texture. Keep your workspace well-floured while rolling and cutting the gnocchi to avoid any sticking problems.
Additionally, taking your time to roll the dough gently is critical. Overworking the dough can result in a tougher texture. Use just enough flour when shaping your gnocchi to achieve the desired softness. After cooking, allow them to fry in the skillet long enough to create a lovely golden-brown crust without burning.
Variations (if any)
Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a versatile dish that allows for various creative twists. For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating other spices or herbs, such as sage or thyme, into the dough for an added aromatic element.
You can also experiment with different cheeses beyond ricotta, such as goat cheese or cottage cheese, to elevate the creaminess of the dish. Moreover, try substituting maple syrup with honey or agave for different sweetness levels.
For a special touch, consider adding some sautéed garlic or onions to the sauce for depth, or adding a splash of cream to create a richer consistency. You can even swap bacon with pancetta or vegetarian alternatives for a different taste.
Best Time to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Sweet Potato Gnocchi is perfect for various occasions throughout the year. It’s especially great during the fall, when sweet potatoes are in season and their natural sweetness is at its peak.
This dish can also be a comforting winter meal, providing warmth and satisfaction during chilly days. It works wonderfully as a festive dish during holidays or family gatherings as well, making it perfect for special occasions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sweet Potato Gnocchi, there are common pitfalls to watch for. One common mistake is using too much flour in the dough. This can lead to gnocchi that are dense and tough instead of light and airy.
Another issue arises from undercooking or overcooking the sweet potatoes. Ensure they are fully tender so they mash smoothly. Also, avoid cooking the gnocchi for too long in boiling water; they should float and be ready in just a few minutes.
Improper storage methods can also lead to sticky or mushy gnocchi, so be mindful of your storage techniques. Lastly, be cautious while frying the gnocchi, as it’s easy for them to brown too quickly without achieving a crispy exterior.
Nutritional Notes (optional)
Sweet Potato Gnocchi offers a unique nutritional profile due to the sweet potatoes, which are high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. The addition of whole wheat flour provides more nutrients than regular flour, contributing to a healthier carbohydrate option.
Ricotta cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish, while maple syrup provides natural sweetness. The use of herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also adds a variety of vitamins and antioxidants.
It’s a balanced dish if enjoyed in moderation, offering a delightful combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, particularly if garnished with fresh herbs.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and store it in the refrigerator or even freeze the uncooked gnocchi for later use. Just remember to cook them directly from frozen.
Can I substitute the sweet potatoes for regular potatoes?
While you can use regular potatoes, the texture and flavor will differ. Sweet potatoes contribute a unique sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat and all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends to make the gnocchi gluten-free.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a charming dish that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Though the preparation may seem intricate, the result is a comforting, delicious meal worth every effort.
From the sweetness of the potatoes to the savory richness of the bacon and herbs, this recipe offers a satisfying culinary experience for you and those you share it with. Perfect for any occasion, Sweet Potato Gnocchi will soon become a beloved favorite in your home. With this recipe, you can create an unforgettable meal that delightfully blends tradition with a modern twist. Enjoy!
