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Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Maple Bourbon Bacon Sauce

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Maple Bourbon Bacon Sauce
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Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Maple Bourbon Bacon Sauce is a comforting yet gourmet dish that balances the natural sweetness of tender roasted sweet potatoes with a rich, smoky maple bourbon bacon sauce. This recipe features homemade light and pillowy gnocchi paired with a silky, flavorful sauce perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining. It offers a unique sweet and savory flavor fusion that is both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sweet Potato Gnocchi

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

For the Maple Bourbon Bacon Sauce

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 small shallots, minced
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Roast Sweet Potatoes: Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until very soft. This process enhances their natural sweetness and makes them easier to mash for the gnocchi dough.
  2. Make the Gnocchi Dough: Once cooled, peel the roasted sweet potatoes and mash thoroughly. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with all-purpose flour, egg, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix gently until you form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the gnocchi tender.
  3. Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into ropes about 1 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. Optionally, press each piece lightly with a fork to create ridges that will hold the sauce better.
  4. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  5. Make the Maple Bourbon Bacon Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add butter and minced shallots to the skillet and sauté until translucent. Stir in maple syrup, and carefully add bourbon. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
  6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat. Stir in the crispy bacon and fresh herbs just before serving for a fragrant and flavorful finish.

Notes

  • Dry the roasted sweet potatoes well before mixing to avoid a gummy gnocchi dough.
  • Use all-purpose flour for the ideal texture and structure.
  • Do not overwork the dough to keep gnocchi light and fluffy.
  • Cook gnocchi in batches to prevent sticking and remove as soon as they float.
  • Simmer the sauce slowly to avoid burning the maple syrup or overpowering alcohol taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato gnocchi, maple bourbon bacon sauce, comfort food, homemade gnocchi, cozy dinner, sweet and savory

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/sweet-potato-gnocchi-with-maple-bourbon-bacon-sauce/