Creamy Gnocchi di Malga with Sage and Aged Cheese

Gnocchi di Malga (Malga-Style Gnocchi)

Category: First Course
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

Instructions:

To begin preparing your Gnocchi di Malga, let’s focus first on creating the dough. Begin by heating the water in a small saucepan. If you don’t have a thermometer to check the water temperature, a simple trick is to divide the water in half: boil one portion, and keep the other at room temperature. Once the two parts are combined, you’ll reach the right temperature.

While the water is heating, sift the flour into a large mixing bowl and add the salt. When the water reaches the correct temperature, slowly incorporate it into the sifted flour, little by little, stirring continuously. Work the mixture for a few minutes, almost “whipping” it (this is where the name gnocchi sbatui or “whipped gnocchi” comes from). The goal is to achieve a smooth, fairly fluid dough. If the dough seems too runny, you can add a little more flour; if it feels too stiff, just add some more water.

Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. While waiting, transfer a portion of the dough onto a flat plate. Moisten a spoon by dipping it into the boiling water. Using the spoon, scoop out small portions of the dough and drop them into the pot of boiling water. The cooking time for the gnocchi will vary depending on their size. Smaller gnocchi will cook more quickly, while larger ones will take a little longer, typically around 15 minutes.

While the gnocchi are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a non-stick pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to cook until it turns a golden amber color. Add the sage leaves to the pan and cook them until fragrant. Grate the Monte Veronese cheese and the Grana Padano DOP, then toss them into the butter-sage mixture, stirring well.

Once the gnocchi are cooked and have risen to the surface of the water, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the pan with the butter and cheese sauce. Toss the gnocchi gently to coat them in the rich, flavorful sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle more grated cheese on top and garnish with a couple of fresh sage leaves.

Your Gnocchi di Malga is now ready to serve! Enjoy this traditional, creamy, and savory dish that brings the essence of the mountains to your table. Perfect for a comforting dinner with friends or family.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This recipe for Gnocchi di Malga offers a delightful balance of flavors from the rich cheese, aromatic butter, and crispy sage, making it an unforgettable first course for your next Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy!