About the Recipe
Savor the rich, hearty flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese, a timeless dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. This recipe is a celebration of simple, yet robust ingredients coming together to create a comforting bowl of pasta, perfect for any day of the week. Whether you're gathering the family for a sumptuous meal or treating yourself to a well-deserved feast, Spaghetti Bolognese offers a warm, inviting experience with its meaty sauce and tender pasta. Paired with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a touch of fresh basil, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (about 450g) ground beef
1/2 cup (about 120ml) red wine (optional)
1 can (about 14 ounces, or 400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup (about 240ml) beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
For Serving:
8 ounces (about 225g) spaghetti
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the red wine, if using, and let it simmer until reduced by half. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.
Chef's Notes:
Wine Choice: A dry red wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can omit it or substitute it with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Simmering Time: For an even richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer for up to 2 hours on low heat. The longer it simmers, the more developed the flavors will be.
Serving Suggestion: Complement this dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete Italian meal.
Storage and Reheating: Bolognese sauce freezes well and can be reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner solution on busy nights.
Conclusion:
This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe brings the comfort and joy of Italian cooking into your home, offering a delectable blend of flavors that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. It's a dish that stands the test of time, promising a cozy, flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. Buon appetito!