Gourmet Gnocci

This is Italian soul food! There is something about a dumpling that just speaks to my soul. Gnocci (pronounced "no-chi") is my favorite kind of dumpling. I first tried this masterpiece in Germany about 9 years ago. My mother in law made if for me. You can also find it on the menu at the Olive Garden.

You can enjoy this in soups, with your favorite pasta sauce, or try a creamy spinach Alfredo sauce with mushrooms. I made a fresh marinara sauce with ingredients all from my garden. It is very filling. 1 cup sized servings will fill up the biggest appetite. I love making this for other families because it is cheap to make and so filling!

Gourmet Gnocci

• 8 potatoes (or to save time use 10 servings of instant mashed potatoes)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 cups all purpose flour

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain, cool slightly and peel. Mash potatoes with a masher. (Tip: for s short cut just make about 10 servings of instant mashed potatoes - follow instructions on box) Place in large bowl and make a well in the center. Put butter in well and allow to melt. Once this has cooled add flour and knead into a soft dough.

Divide dough into fist sized balls. On a floured surface roll each ball into a long rope. Cut the ropes into 1 inch pieces. Press each piece with a fork.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in dumplings and cook 3-5 minutes until they float to the top. Top with your favorite sauce, cheese and fresh basil.