Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi

Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, bringing together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the nutty richness of brown butter, and the warm sweetness of maple syrup. This dish is perfect for a cozy autumn meal, balancing hearty textures with delicate flavors. The homemade sweet potato gnocchi are light and pillowy, while the brown butter adds depth and complexity, accented by the subtle sweetness of maple syrup. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• Fresh sage or thyme for garnish (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, peel and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Make the Gnocchi Dough: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, beaten egg, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add the flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this will make the gnocchi tough.
3. Shape the Gnocchi: On a floured surface, divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a long rope, about 3/4 inch thick. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. You can leave them as-is or roll them over the back of a fork to create ridges.
4. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches, gently adding them to the water. Once they float to the surface, cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. Prepare the Maple Brown Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup.
6. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked gnocchi in the maple brown butter sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, savory flavors.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!