Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a quintessential Italian dish that has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. It combines tender spaghetti with a rich, flavorful meat sauce, often simmered to perfection over several hours. This dish epitomizes the comfort and warmth of Italian cooking, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. The Bolognese sauce, originating from Bologna, Italy, is a meat-based sauce known as ragù alla bolognese in its homeland. It is traditionally made with a few simple, high-quality ingredients that meld together to create a deeply satisfying dish.
The beauty of Spaghetti Bolognese lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved with minimal ingredients. The sauce typically features a combination of ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and herbs, slow-cooked to allow the flavors to develop fully. While variations exist, the classic version remains a staple of Italian cuisine. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a universal comfort food beloved by many.
Ingredients Required
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 800g canned plum tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-wise Process to make Spaghetti Bolognese
- Prepare the Ingredients: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking until soft but not browned, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to high and add the ground meat to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 10 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), and broth. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for about 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally, adding water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Once the sauce has thickened and developed in flavor, adjust seasoning as needed. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, or serve the sauce over the spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
Number of Servings
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Important Points
- For the best flavor, use a combination of ground beef and pork. The pork adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Allowing the sauce to simmer slowly is key to developing its complex flavors. If possible, let it simmer for longer than the minimum time.
- Fresh ingredients, particularly the herbs and tomatoes, can significantly enhance the flavor of the sauce.
How to Serve Spaghetti Bolognese
Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese hot, with the sauce either mixed through the pasta or ladled over the top of a bed of spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together the simplicity of Italian cooking with the rich, comforting flavors that have made it a worldwide favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that promises to delight and satisfy. The key to an unforgettable Spaghetti Bolognese lies in the love and patience put into simmering the sauce, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
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