Basic Potato Gnocchi

Directions

1. 1
   Lightly flour a baking sheet; set aside.
2. 2
   Put the potatoes in a large saucepan, and cover with cold water by 2 inches.
3. 3
   Bring to a boil; add 1 tablespoon salt.
4. 4
   Reduce to a simmer; cook until the potatoes are very tender, about 25 minutes.
5. 5
   Drain the potatoes.
6. 6
   When they are cool enough to handle, peel them, then pass them through a ricer or food mill into a medium bowl.
7. 7
   Sprinkle with the flour, and add the eggs.
8. 8
   Sprinkle with the remaining 2 1/2 teaspoons salt and the pepper.
9. 9
   Stir mixture with a fork to combine well.
10. 10
    Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface; gently knead until it is soft and smooth, about 3 minutes.
11. 11
    Divide the dough into 4 to 6 pieces.
12. 12
    Roll each piece into a long rope about 3/4 inch thick.
13. 13
    Cut the ropes crosswise into 1-inch gnocchi.
14. 14
    Roll a cut side of each dumpling against the tines of a fork with your thumb (forming ridges on one side and an indentation on the other).
15. 15
    Set aside on the floured baking sheet until ready to cook.