Can you steam gnocchi?

In this article, we will answer the question “Can you steam gnocchi?”, along with other information such as what it tastes like, how to store gnocchi and the sauces that go with it.

Can you steam gnocchi?

Yes, you can steam gnocchi, if it has been boiled before. Directly steaming gnocchi produces a clumpy texture, and it is unappetizing. 

Hence, it is advised to directly boil the gnocchi to cook it and steam it later if you are reheating it. You can serve the gnocchi with soups or stews, after garnishing with a garnish of your choice.

What does gnocchi taste like?

Gnocchi has a distinct bland taste and soft texture which is similar to cooked plain pasta. This is because it is mostly made out of potatoes which can be quite bland to taste. 

To add some flavor, you can cook your gnocchi with different sauces, vegetables, and seasonings of your choice. 

How do you store steamed gnocchi?

You can store your steamed gnocchi in an air-tight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 to 3 days. Make sure you add a splash of olive oil to your gnocchi to prevent it from sticking together. 

However, if you have already cooked it with a sauce, simply refrigerate it without adding any olive oil. 

Is gnocchi better than pasta?

Yes, gnocchi is better than pasta as it is a healthier alternative. This is because gnocchi contains less flour than traditional white pasta. 

It is also gluten-free and has fewer calories than pasta.  However, to make gnocchi a better alternative, you should cook it with healthy sauces.

Can you freeze gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze gnocchi right after you shape them into pieces. Place your gnocchi in a baking tray, making sure they do not stick to each other, and freeze for 3 hours. 

Take out of the freezer, place your gnocchi in airtight zip lock bags, and freeze for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Why did my steamed gnocchi turn mushy?

Your steamed gnocchi can turn mushy if you use boiled potatoes instead of baked ones. This is because boiled potatoes can absorb a lot of moisture and turn soggy. 

For the best results, make sure you use russet potatoes. Another reason could be dry dough as a direct result of not adding an egg. 

What sauces go best with steamed gnocchi?

Several different sauces go best with steamed gnocchi, and more information about other sauces and their ingredients can be found here.

  • Sage and butter sauce: In a pan or skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Once it turns bubbly, add your sage and stir until the sage browns and turns the butter fragrant. Season with salt and pepper and add your gnocchi, letting it cook for a minute. Finally, top it off with grated parmesan and enjoy. 
  • Tomato and basil sauce: Peel and dice tomatoes and let them simmer in a pan of olive oil. Once simmered, blend the tomatoes to get a smooth sauce. Season your sauce and add in cooked gnocchi, stirring everything. Finally, add in basil, Parmesan, or any cheese of your choice and enjoy. 
  • Basil pesto sauce: Pulse together fresh basil and pine seeds in a food processor until it’s combined. Add in garlic and Parmesan and pulse a few more times. Finally, add olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. You can serve it with cooked gnocchi or pasta. 
  • Pistachio pesto sauce: In a food processor, blend basil, shelled pistachio, parmesan cheese, and garlic until combined. Add a splash of olive oil to the blended mixture until it becomes a purée. Finally, season with salt and pepper and enjoy with gnocchi or pasta.

How can you tell your steamed gnocchi is spoiled?

You can tell your steamed gnocchi is spoiled if it has an unpleasant odor or appears to be sticky. You can also boil a small piece of gnocchi to observe its texture. 

If it breaks apart instead of turning soft, discard it immediately as it could be spoiled. Check the expiry date before cooking your gnocchi, if it’s frozen it may last about 2 months.

How do you reheat steamed gnocchi?

You can reheat steamed gnocchi by baking them in the oven at 350 F for about 10 to 15 minutes. Place your gnocchi in a baking dish and sprinkle it with water to prevent it from dying. Cover the dish in foil before placing it in the oven to trap enough heat so the gnocchi can reheat properly.

Can steamed gnocchi help you lose weight?

No, the steamed gnocchi will not help you lose any weight. Although gnocchi is a bit healthier than pasta and has lower calories, it is still similar to pasta and should be avoided if you are on a diet. However, you can try healthier versions of gnocchi a few times a month, along with your diet plan. 

Conclusion

In this article, we have answered the question “Can you steam gnocchi?”, along with other information such as what it tastes like, how to store gnocchi, and the sauces that go with it.

References

https://www.livestrong.com/article/545930-the-nutritional-value-of-gnocchi-regular-pasta/

https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/gnocchi-101335

https://www.101cookbooks.com/gnocchi-recipe/

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