Winter brings with it a craving for comforting, warm meals, and what better than a bowl of steaming gnocchi soup to make the cold days cozy? This guide will walk you through making a delicious gnocchi soup with simple ingredients, transforming your kitchen into an Italian trattoria. Here's how you can do it in 5 straightforward steps:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
The first step to creating your perfect gnocchi soup is assembling the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter version
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 package (17.5 oz) of potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
2. Prepare the Base
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat:
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth, tomatoes, and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
📌 Note: Keep the heat at a medium simmer to avoid burning the milk or cream.
3. Add the Gnocchi
When your base is ready:
- Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup. These little pillows of potato will cook right in the soup, absorbing all the flavors.
- Cook for about 5 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top, which indicates they are done.
4. Incorporate the Spinach and Chicken
Once the gnocchi are cooked:
- Stir in the baby spinach and, if using, the shredded chicken. Let the soup cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Your gnocchi soup is now ready to be served:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Sprinkle with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic touch.
Each spoonful promises warmth and comfort, perfect for any cold winter day. Enjoy this delightful, creamy soup with a slice of crusty bread to mop up the flavors.
After mastering these steps, you'll find that making gnocchi soup at home is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy. Here are some points to keep in mind:
📌 Note: If the soup thickens too much, you can add a bit more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
📌 Note: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can be reheated, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
In closing, gnocchi soup is a versatile dish. You can play around with the ingredients, adding different vegetables like kale or kale, or even throwing in some cooked sausage for extra flavor. By following these steps and adjusting according to your taste, you can enjoy a homemade version of this beloved Italian-inspired soup anytime. Happy cooking!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
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Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the chicken. You might also add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
Can I freeze gnocchi soup?
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Yes, you can freeze gnocchi soup. However, freeze it without the milk or cream, as these can separate or turn grainy when frozen. Add the dairy when you reheat the soup.
What type of gnocchi is best for this soup?
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Pre-made potato gnocchi works very well for this soup. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own, but shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi will save you time and still taste great.
How do I prevent the gnocchi from getting too soft in the soup?
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Once the gnocchi float to the top, they are cooked. Cook them for a minute or two longer, but not much more to avoid sogginess. If you’re storing the soup, remove the gnocchi from the broth when storing, and reintroduce them when reheating to preserve their texture.
