Spinach Malfattis are a traditional Italian dish that originated in the 19th century. These gnocchi-like pasta pieces, made with spinach and ricotta, are known for their unique flavor and texture rather than their perfect shape. The name 'Malfattis' translates to 'badly made,' emphasizing their rustic charm. Serve them with butter and sage for a classic taste or experiment with other sauces like mushroom and Gruyere cheese or tomato. This recipe is simple yet delicious, bringing...
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Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with 40 g of butter until softened.
Blanch the spinach in boiling water, then drain and chop it finely. Add the spinach to the sautéed onion mixture, off the heat.
Add the ricotta, 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, the eggs, the egg yolk, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and the flour to the spinach mixture. Mix well to form a dough.
Take small portions of the dough and shape them into rough balls or ovals. Roll them lightly in flour.
In a pan, melt butter with sage, salt, and pepper. Let the butter infuse with the sage, then set aside.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the malfattis into the water and cook them until they float to the surface.
Remove them immediately and transfer them to the pan with the sage butter sauce.
For an extra touch, gratinate the malfattis in a hot oven before serving.
Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid excess water in the dough.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Shape the malfattis roughly; their charm lies in their imperfect appearance.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
What other sauces can I serve with Malfattis?
You can serve them with mushroom and Gruyere cheese sauce, tomato sauce, or even a simple garlic butter sauce.
Can I make Malfattis ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the malfattis ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and cook them when ready to serve.
How do I know when the Malfattis are cooked?
The Malfattis are cooked when they float to the surface of the boiling water.
Can I freeze Malfattis?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked Malfattis. Place them on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
