For my wife’s birthday, we made meatloaf and mashed potatoes. As always, I make way too much mashed potatoes because I love making gnocchi and potato pancakes. Since we had another early dismissal today due to weather, the whole gang is in on the action. For the gnocchi:
- 2 Cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 4 eggs
- About 2 Cups flour or enough to make it “look right”
- salt
Blend everything together in the stand mixer until it has the right consistency by adjusting the flour. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest 30 minutes. In batches roll into about 1/2 inch wide logs. Cut logs every 1/2 inch and pinch slightly. You could use a fork to give them the traditional shape but we didn’t bother. Let rest while you make all the rest of the meal. Then boil in salted water until they float.
For the sauce, we used:
- 1 green pepper
- 1 red pepper
- 2 medium shallots
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 can tomato paste
- 1 can whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 can tomato puree
- Handful of basil
- Some left over thyme, because….
- Salt and pepper
Saute the veg until translucent. Add tomato paste and saute until it gets nice and dark red/brown. Add tomatoes and puree and herbs. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
For the meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 eggs
- salt and pepper
- dried oregano
- dried basil
- 1/2 C milk
- Enough breadcrumbs to make the right consistency
Mix everything together and put in fridge to get the bread crumbs nice a soft. Roll into small balls and through into the simmering sauce until they have cooked through.
Make the gnocchi and serve with sauce and meatballs.
Some of those that have commented have asked me to include some pics of the intermediate results. Will try going forward.
Working Dad Cooks 