Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Gnocchi Meaning: Definition and Examples

🍽️
Add to dictionary

gnocchi

[ˈnjɔki ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food, Italian

Gnocchi are soft dumplings typically made from potato, flour, and eggs. They are a traditional Italian dish often served with sauce or in soup. Gnocchi are known for their tender texture and ability to absorb flavors from accompanying sauces.

Synonyms

dumplings, noodles, pasta.

Examples of usage

  • I love making gnocchi from scratch.
  • The restaurant serves delicious spinach gnocchi.
  • Gnocchi in a creamy pesto sauce is my favorite dish.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Traditions

  • Gnocchi is traditionally served with marinara sauce, pesto, or browned butter, and can also be baked with cheese.
  • Variations exist across regions in Italy: in the south, they often have more potatoes, while northern versions might include spinach or pumpkin.

Cultural Significance

  • In Italy, making gnocchi is often a family affair, where many generations come together in the kitchen to prepare them.
  • The 'last Thursday of September' is informally recognized as International Gnocchi Day, celebrated with various recipes around the world.

Health and Nutrition

  • Potato-based gnocchi provides a good source of carbohydrates and can be a part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables or sauces.
  • Gluten-free versions of gnocchi can be made using alternatives like rice flour or quinoa flour for those with dietary restrictions.

Pop Culture

  • Gnocchi has appeared in TV cooking shows and competitions, often showcasing the art of making from scratch.
  • Its whimsical shape and comforting nature have made it a favorite in numerous Italian-themed restaurants worldwide.

Origin of 'gnocchi'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gnocchi' comes from the Italian word for 'lumps' or 'knots', referring to their small shape.
  • Some theories suggest that it might be derived from the 13th-century word 'nocca', meaning 'knuckle', which describes their form.

The word 'gnocchi' originates from the Italian language, with its roots tracing back to the Latin word 'nux', meaning 'nut'. It's believed that the creation of gnocchi dates back to ancient Roman times when similar dumplings were made from flour and water. Over time, the dish evolved, particularly in the northern regions of Italy, where potatoes were introduced in the 16th century after the Columbian Exchange. The soft texture and pillowy appearance of gnocchi made it a popular comfort food. Today, gnocchi can be found in various regional variations, often incorporating ingredients like spinach, ricotta, and even pumpkin. This versatile dish has become beloved not only in Italy but also worldwide, celebrated for its delightful taste and ease of preparation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,791, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.