Ep 5. Gnocchi

Lidia's Kitchen is a cooking show hosted by renowned Italian chef Lidia Bastianich. In season 4 episode 5, titled "Gnocchi," Lidia takes viewers on a culinary journey through the making of gnocchi, one of Italy's most famous and beloved dishes.

The episode begins with Lidia introducing the audience to the origins of gnocchi, which she explains is a type of pasta made with potatoes. She then proceeds to show viewers how to make gnocchi from scratch, starting with the preparation of the potatoes. Throughout the episode, Lidia provides tips on how to select the perfect potatoes for gnocchi-making and offers advice on how to properly cook and mash them.

Once the potatoes are mashed, Lidia adds flour, egg, and a pinch of salt to create the gnocchi dough. She then demonstrates how to roll and cut the dough into small pieces and shape them into the classic gnocchi form.

Next, Lidia moves on to the sauce, preparing a simple and delicious tomato sauce that complements the gnocchi perfectly. During this part of the episode, Lidia shares her secrets for creating a rich and flavorful sauce using only a handful of fresh ingredients.

As the final touches are added to the sauce, Lidia cooks the gnocchi in a pot of boiling water until they float to the surface. She then serves the perfectly cooked gnocchi with the tomato sauce and garnishes with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Throughout the episode, Lidia offers insights into regional variations of gnocchi, such as the use of different types of potatoes and even the addition of ingredients like spinach or ricotta cheese. She also shares her tips for pairing gnocchi with other dishes and wines that complement its flavors.

Overall, "Gnocchi" is a delightful episode of Lidia's Kitchen that showcases the beauty and simplicity of Italian cuisine. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves to cook or simply appreciates the joys of a perfectly made bowl of pasta.