Ricotta Gnocchi with Caribbean Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian ricotta gnocchi is transformed into a Caribbean-inspired dish by incorporating flavors and ingredients commonly found in the British Virgin Islands cuisine. The original Italian recipe typically uses a tomato-based sauce, while this adaptation features a creamy coconut and lime sauce infused with Caribbean spices. Additionally, the dish is garnished with cilantro and served with grilled pineapple to enhance the tropical flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Gnocchi di ricotta, so you can check it out.

• 500g (2 cups) ricotta cheese 500g (2 cups) ricotta cheese
• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 400ml (1 ¾ cups) coconut milk 400ml (1 ¾ cups) coconut milk
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish Chopped cilantro, for garnish
• Grilled pineapple, for serving Grilled pineapple, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. 2.
   On a floured surface, divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a long rope, about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick.
3. 3.
   Cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces and gently press each piece with a fork to create ridges.
4. 4.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. 5.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat. Add the lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped scotch bonnet pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
8. 8.
   Serve the ricotta gnocchi with the sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro. Accompany with grilled pineapple on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ricotta cheese — Make sure to use a high-quality ricotta cheese for the best texture and flavor in the gnocchi.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Handle with caution and wear gloves when chopping the pepper, as it is very spicy. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
• Grilled pineapple — Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill pineapple slices for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve light and fluffy gnocchi, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture.
• If you prefer a milder heat, remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper before chopping.
• For added depth of flavor, toast the grated ginger in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the sauce.
• If you don't have access to fresh limes, you can substitute with bottled lime juice, but adjust the quantity to taste.
• Experiment with other tropical fruits like mango or papaya as a variation to the grilled pineapple side.

Serving advice

Serve the Ricotta Gnocchi with a Caribbean Flair as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad. The vibrant colors and flavors of the dish make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any dinner table.

Presentation advice

Arrange the gnocchi on a serving platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Place the grilled pineapple slices on a separate plate to serve alongside the gnocchi. The contrasting colors of the dish will make it visually appealing.