Black Garlic & Parmesan Gnocchi – A Luxurious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

A Story of Comfort and Elegance in Every Bite

There’s something magical about gnocchi—those soft, pillowy dumplings that feel like a warm hug in every bite. I still remember my first attempt at making gnocchi from scratch. I was in my tiny kitchen on a crisp autumn evening, craving something rich yet comforting. The idea of pairing gnocchi with black garlic and Parmesan felt like an elegant twist on a classic dish. The result? A creamy, umami-packed sauce that clung perfectly to each dumpling, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

Black Garlic & Parmesan Gnocchi

Today, I’m sharing this Black Garlic and Parmesan Gnocchi recipe so you can experience the same cozy, gourmet delight in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious homemade meal, this dish is a must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Gnocchi:
  • 500g (2 cups) russet potatoes, baked and mashed
  • 120g (1 cup) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ tsp salt
For the Black Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
  • 5 cloves black garlic, mashed into a paste
  • 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter
  • 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
  • 60g (½ cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g

Black Garlic & Parmesan Gnocchi

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

  1. Start by baking the potatoes until they are soft and fully cooked. Once baked, let them cool slightly before peeling and mashing them until smooth.
  2. On a clean work surface, create a mound with the mashed potatoes and sprinkle the flour evenly over them.
  3. Make a small well in the center and add the beaten egg and salt.
  4. Gently mix everything together, kneading lightly until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can make the gnocchi tough.

Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi

  1. Divide the dough into four equal sections.
  2. Roll each section into a long rope, about 2 cm thick.
  3. Using a knife, cut the rope into bite-sized pieces.
  4. For that classic gnocchi texture, use a fork to gently press each piece, creating small ridges that help hold the sauce.
  5. Place the gnocchi on a floured tray and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Drop the gnocchi into the water in batches. They will sink at first and then float to the top when done (this takes about 2 minutes).
  3. Remove the gnocchi using a slotted spoon and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Black Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add the mashed black garlic and stir for 1 minute to release its rich, caramelized aroma.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until well combined.
  4. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
  5. Season with black pepper and salt, adjusting to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

  1. Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the black garlic Parmesan sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  2. Let everything simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Black Garlic & Parmesan Gnocchi

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

  • Use starchy potatoes like russet potatoes for a light, fluffy texture.
  • Don’t overwork the dough—too much kneading can make the gnocchi dense.
  • Cook in small batches to prevent overcrowding in the pot.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding a splash of reserved pasta water if it’s too thick.

FAQs:-

1. Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the gnocchi and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook straight from frozen—no need to thaw!

2. What does black garlic taste like?

Black garlic has a deep, sweet, and umami-rich flavor with hints of balsamic, molasses, and roasted garlic. It adds a complex, gourmet touch to sauces.

3. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, high-quality store-bought gnocchi works well. Just follow the instructions for the sauce and toss everything together.

4. What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the umami richness of black garlic and Parmesan.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour to make gluten-free gnocchi.

Final Thoughts – A Luxurious Yet Comforting Dish

This Black Garlic and Parmesan Gnocchi is the perfect balance of comfort and gourmet indulgence. The soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with the umami-packed sauce makes for an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re preparing this for a special dinner or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

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