Method
Step 1: Prepare the Beetroots
Roast the Beetroots: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beetroots in aluminum foil and roast them for about 40-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cool and Purée: Once cool enough to handle, peel the beetroots and chop them into chunks. Purée in a food processor or mash with a fork until smooth. You should have about 1 cup of beet purée.
Step 2: Make the Gnocchi Dough
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the beet purée, ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
Add Flour: Gradually add 2 cups of flour to the mixture, mixing with a fork or your hands until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it is manageable. Aim for a dough that is soft but not overly sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi
Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into quarters. Roll each quarter into a rope about 1/2 inch thick.
Cut the Gnocchi: Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to create ridges by gently pressing down on each piece (this helps the sauce cling better).
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. This indicates they are cooked through.
Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
Make the Sage Butter: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the butter starts to brown slightly and the sage becomes crispy.
Toss the Gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sage butter.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the Dish: Serve the gnocchi warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional sage if desired.
Variations
Herbed Gnocchi: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute ricotta with a vegan ricotta alternative and use flax egg as a binder.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.