Tender Gnocchi With Vodka

This easy Gnocchi alla Vodka brings together pillowy soft gnocchi and a rich tomato-cream vodka sauce full of garlic, parmesan, and fresh basil for a comforting yet elegant meal. It’s a perfect weekend dinner or special occasion dish that never fails to impress while still being simple enough for any home cook.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the vegetables Choose extra virgin for best flavor
• Onion: finely diced Builds the flavor base with natural sweetness Look for firm, glossy-skinned bulbs
• Carrot: finely diced Adds subtle sweetness and body Pick bright orange, crisp carrots for freshness
• Garlic cloves: minced Provides aromatic depth Use fresh garlic bulbs that are firm with no green shoots
• Vodka or chicken broth: Adds complexity to the sauce and tenderizes the tomatoes Vodka burns off leaving behind a mellow flavor
• Whole tomatoes canned: Use quality San Marzano if possible for sweet balanced acidity
• Tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce Select a concentrated, deep red paste
• Salt: balances flavors Use kosher or sea salt for clean seasoning
• Pepper: freshly ground for best aroma
• Red pepper flakes: Add gentle heat Adjust amount to taste
• Sugar: rounds out acidity Choose pure white granulated sugar
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its creamy, smooth texture Use whipping cream with at least 36 percent fat
• Gnocchi: pasta soft pillow-like dumplings Choose fresh if available otherwise look for high-quality packaged brands
• Parmesan cheese: freshly grated Adds saltiness and nuttiness Pick Parmigiano-Reggiano for authentic flavor
• Basil leaves: fresh for garnish Adds brightness and herbal notes Use vibrant green leaves without blemishes
• Optional: Calabrian chili paste for a smoky spicy twist This can replace red pepper flakes if you prefer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat Add 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil Then add finely diced onion and carrot Cook gently for 8 to 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute This slow cooking builds a rich flavor base for the sauce

Deglaze with Vodka or Broth:

Pour in three quarters cup of vodka or chicken broth Stir to loosen any browned bits stuck to the pan Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the alcohol burns off This step adds depth and complexity to the sauce without harshness

Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Pour in a 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes and a tablespoon of tomato paste Add one teaspoon each of salt and pepper plus half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes and two teaspoons of sugar Use a spoon to break up the whole tomatoes Reduce heat to medium low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes This melds the flavors and thickens the sauce

Blend the Sauce if Desired:

For a smoother sauce consistency use an immersion blender directly in the pan or transfer the sauce carefully to a blender Remember the sauce will be hot so take caution Blending creates a silky texture that coats the gnocchi beautifully

Cook the Gnocchi in Sauce:

Add one pound of gnocchi to the sauce Stir in three quarters to one cup of heavy cream and a quarter cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese Save the rest of the cheese for topping Stir well and taste Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed Cook until the gnocchi float which means they are tender and ready usually within a few minutes

Garnish and Serve:

Serve the gnocchi hot topped with more freshly grated parmesan and ribbons of fresh basil This adds color aroma and a bright contrast to the rich sauce

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Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep well for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed It also freezes well but the texture of the gnocchi may become slightly softer after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer you can substitute the vodka with extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version This will reduce some depth but keeps it flavorful Fresh gnocchi can be replaced with frozen gnocchi just cook according to package instructions For a dairy free option use coconut cream or cashew cream though the flavor will be different

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the creamy tomato sauce Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce

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Cultural Context

Gnocchi alla Vodka takes inspiration from classic Italian pasta sauces where vodka is added to create a luscious texture and enhance flavors This adaptation combines the comforting doughy gnocchi with a sauce that is both creamy and tangy making it a beloved dish in Italian American households

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of gnocchi works best?

Fresh gnocchi offers a soft texture and cooks quickly, but shelf-stable varieties also yield satisfying results if cooked properly.

→ Can chicken broth replace vodka?

Yes, chicken broth can be used for a milder flavor while maintaining the sauce’s moisture and depth.

→ How can the sauce be smoother?

Using an immersion blender or carefully blending the sauce after simmering helps create a silky, uniform texture.

→ What is the best way to season this dish?

Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar balance the acidity and elevate the flavor of the tomato-based sauce.

→ Is it necessary to add cream?

Adding heavy cream enriches the sauce, giving it a silky texture and mellowing the tomato’s tartness.